MTN Nigeria, the country’s leading telecommunications provider, has resumed nationwide operations after a temporary shutdown on Tuesday. The closure followed widespread customer outrage and vandalism resulting from the disconnection of subscribers who failed to link their SIM cards to their National Identification Numbers (NINs).
Announcing the resumption on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, MTN confirmed that its physical shops would be open from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. “Y’ello customer, please note that our shops nationwide will be open today, 31 July. Operating hours: 8.00 am-3:00 pm. We are also available 24/7 to support you via digital channels,” the operator stated.
The disconnections, which left many subscribers without access to their phone lines, sparked a significant backlash over the weekend. This led the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to direct telecommunications operators to immediately restore all affected lines.
The NCC, through its Director of Media and Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, explained that the directive aimed to address the widespread disruption and subscriber outrage caused by the blockages. The mandatory NIN-SIM linkage, initiated in December 2020, is intended to enhance national security and ensure an accurate SIM ownership database. Despite multiple deadline extensions, many lines remain unverified.
Initially set for April 15, 2024, the deadline for full network compliance was extended to July 31, 2024, to provide consumers more time for NIN verification. However, numerous phone lines have yet to meet the verification requirements.
