Tinubu Orders Probe into Allegations of Unauthorised NIN-SIM Linkages
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President Bola Tinubu has ordered an inter-ministerial committee to investigate mounting allegations that telecommunications providers have linked National Identification Numbers (NINs) to mobile subscribers’ lines without their consent.
Presidency sources confirmed that Tinubu issued the directive during Tuesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House in Abuja. The committee, comprising top government officials, is tasked with uncovering the extent of the problem and ensuring data integrity across Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Among those appointed to the committee are National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Nentawe Yilwatda.
One source familiar with the discussions at FEC revealed: “The President directed these ministers to investigate the issue thoroughly and ensure that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has access to accurate data for its work.”
Another official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed: “Yes, the President set up a small committee to address the NIN-SIM linkage challenges involving telecom operators. He wants a swift resolution to the issue.”
While the exact timeframe for the investigation remains unclear, reports indicate that numerous telecom users have discovered their NINs linked to unauthorised SIM cards. Some have found multiple lines associated with their NINs without their knowledge, raising serious concerns about data protection and security.
Consumer advocacy groups and affected individuals have since called for an urgent probe, demanding greater transparency and stricter regulatory oversight to prevent data misuse.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has launched a separate investigation, following a motion sponsored by lawmakers Patrick Umoh and Professor Julius Ihonvbere during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Umoh expressed deep concern over the potential risks posed by unauthorised NIN-SIM linkages, warning that subscribers could be exposed to fraud, identity theft, and even wrongful criminal implication. He argued that such practices violate both the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023 and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, 2019, which guarantee citizens’ rights to data privacy.
“The unauthorised linking of NINs to SIM cards exposes Nigerians to grave risks, including financial fraud and cybercrime,” Umoh stated. “We have seen cases where innocent citizens face harassment and reputational damage due to errors in data linking.”
In response, the House mandated its Committees on Communications and Interior to investigate and present their findings within four weeks. Additionally, lawmakers urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to probe telecom firms implicated in the practice and take appropriate regulatory action.
Tuesday’s FEC meeting was the second in two days, with ministers reviewing a total of 101 memos. Amid growing public outrage, all eyes are now on both the presidency and parliament to ensure accountability in Nigeria’s digital identity system.
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