NCC’s device verification tool exposes vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s mobile imports
- The NCC launched a device verification tool on October 7, 2026.
- Consumers can check phone approval status by dialing *315#.
- 99% of smartphones in Nigeria are imported, complicating compliance enforcement.
While the NCC's device verification tool is a step in the right direction for regulating the telecom market, the real challenge lies in its implementation and enforcement across a fragmented supply chain. The success of this initiative will depend on the agency's ability to navigate the complexities of informal distribution networks and ensure compliance among importers.
