The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has denied all claims that it has plans to ban Nigerians under the age of 18 from getting Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards. 
A media report had yesterday claimed that the NCC was planning to ban all Nigerians below the age of 18 from purchasing and registering for SIM cards.
Addressing the issue, NCC in a statement signed by its Director of Public Administration, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, described the report which claimed it had plans to stop under 18 Nigerians from accessing SIM cards as inaccurate, misleading and mischaracterization of the proceedings of the Public Inquiry on the Reviewed/Draft Registration of Telephone Subscribers Regulations, which took place on Tuesday, October 6, 2021.
The Commission further added in the statement that guardians and parents of under 18 Nigerians can acquire SIMs for their wards and children, but should be prepared to take responsibility for whatever might happen thereafter.
The Commission explained that it was crucial to address the issue and correct any misinformation in order to provide existing and potential telecom subscribers, investors and other stakeholders in the industry with accurate information for proper decision making.
It further explained that in accordance with sections 70 and 71 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003 and the Commission’s consultative engagement process, which define its rule-making process, the public inquiry was held for all relevant stakeholders to provide input on the draft regulatory instrument.
It added, “The age of 18 years for SIM acquisition proposed in the draft regulation is contingent on the constitutional provision, which makes 18 years the age of consent in Nigeria. Also, SIM acquisition is a contract between service providers and their subscribers, which requires the subscriber to have proper legal status, be of matured mind and rational enough to bear certain responsibilities, obligations and liabilities imposed by a contract.
“The proposal is, therefore, to protect minors. “Parents and guardians can acquire SIMs in their names on behalf of their children and wards in which case they assume whatever responsibilities or liabilities arise from the usage o such SIMs, a measure expected to also strengthen national security.”
NCC noted that the draft proposal is intended to guarantee increased monitoring of children and shield the minors from undue liabilities in line with NCC’s Child Online Protection drive.