The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has imposed a ₦104 million fine on Airtel Nigeria, citing multiple violations of SIM registration guidelines — a move that reinforces the Commission’s zero-tolerance stance on regulatory breaches in the telecoms sector.
The fine follows an investigation into reported irregularities in Kano State, where over 8,000 SIM cards were allegedly registered using unauthorized devices — outside Airtel’s 281 approved retail outlets. Even more concerning, 63 SIMs were reportedly activated before proper registration was completed, which is in direct violation of Nigeria’s SIM registration protocols.
In a letter dated May 26, 2025, addressed to Airtel Nigeria’s CEO, the NCC detailed the infractions and gave the company seven days to settle the fines. The penalties were itemized as follows: ₦5 million, ₦12 million, ₦81.4 million, and an additional ₦5 million — each tied to specific violations.
The NCC stressed that proper SIM registration is critical to national security and the fight against digital fraud and crime. The Commission’s latest action signals a renewed push to keep telecom operators in check and uphold data integrity.
In response, Airtel Nigeria issued a statement thanking the NCC for its regulatory vigilance. A spokesperson described the sanctions not as punitive, but as “a necessary nudge to further strengthen our internal systems.”
“Compliance isn’t just a checkbox — it’s an ongoing responsibility. We welcome the NCC’s oversight as part of our commitment to protecting customers and aligning with national security goals,” the company said.
Airtel also reaffirmed its pledge to work closely with the NCC and other regulators to raise the bar for quality, safety, and accountability in Nigeria’s telecommunications space.
This enforcement action serves as a stark reminder: for telecom operators, staying compliant isn’t optional — it’s essential in building a trusted and secure digital future for Nigeria.
