NIN-SIM: Steps to Retrieve Your Barred Mobile Phone Numbers

Following the Nigerian Communications Commission’s announcement that over 40 million telephone lines have been barred due to non-compliance with the National Identity Number (NIN) registration requirement, many telecom users are seeking ways to retrieve their barred phone numbers before potential forfeiture.

Reuben Mouka, the Director of Public Affairs at the NCC, revealed this development during an interview with PUNCH Online on Tuesday, emphasizing the urgency for affected subscribers to take action within a specified timeframe.

Mouka explained that if the barred lines are not addressed within the next 180 days, they will lose the ability to receive calls, with eventual complete barring from making calls, potentially resulting in forfeiture to the service provider within 365 days.

To assist affected subscribers in unblocking their phone lines, PUNCH Online has outlined the retrieval process based on guidance from the NCC’s Director of Publicity:

1. For Unregistered Subscribers: Visit accredited centres nationwide to register your SIM with your National Identity Number (NIN).
2. Linking NIN with SIM: Follow the channels provided by your service provider to link your NIN with your SIM.
3. For Registered NIN Holders: Visit your service provider’s centre and present your NIN, or link your SIM through provided channels.
4. Retrieve Forgotten NIN: Dial *346# on your mobile phone to retrieve your NIN conveniently. Select “NIN Retrieval” and follow the displayed steps. Note that a N20 fee applies.
5. Network-Specific Linkage Codes: Each mobile network operator has designated USSD codes for quick linkage of NIN and SIM cards:
   • For MTN Customers: Dial *785# or 785YourNIN#.
   • For Glo Customers: Send “UPDATENIN NIN FirstName and LastName” to 109.
   • For Airtel Customers: Dial 1211# to link your NIN.
   • For 9Mobile Customers: Dial 2008# and follow on-screen prompts.

By following these steps, affected subscribers can swiftly unbar their phone lines and ensure compliance with the NIN-SIM registration requirement, avoiding potential forfeiture of their numbers.