Mobile device technicians and other industry stakeholders have urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to adopt a phased approach to the registration of mobile devices under its planned Device Management System (DMS).
The commission is preparing to deploy the DMS as part of efforts to tackle mobile phone theft and the circulation of counterfeit devices across Nigeria.
Ahead of the rollout, the NCC has engaged key players in the mobile device market, including Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), importers, dealers and vendors.
The engagements are aimed at creating awareness about the system and allowing stakeholders to upload the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of devices currently in their inventories before the platform becomes fully operational.
The NCC initially set September 7, 2026, as the deadline for completing the onboarding process but has extended the deadline to October 6, 2026, according to an email seen by TheCable.
Despite the extension, stakeholders say the timeframe remains a major concern, particularly for businesses that are yet to complete the registration process and upload the required IMEI numbers.
They also raised concerns about uncertainties surrounding some aspects of the system, including the absence of a clearly defined appeal process for devices flagged because of legitimately damaged IMEI numbers.
According to stakeholders, IMEI damage could occur as a result of software problems or during repairs, raising questions about how affected devices would be treated under the new system.
They further expressed concerns about the potential economic impact of the policy on importers, other players across the supply chain and, ultimately, consumers.
A source said devices already in transit could face additional requirements under the DMS, potentially creating unexpected costs between importation and the point of sale.
Stakeholders also questioned the planned training of technicians, saying the NCC had yet to provide sufficient details about the programme, including its possible financial implications.
Concerns have also emerged over the capacity of the DMS after stakeholders reportedly encountered difficulties during a demonstration conducted by the commission at the engagement.
The NCC reportedly attributed the problem to an ongoing system upgrade.
However, stakeholders questioned whether the platform would be capable of handling the large volume of devices expected to undergo registration once the system becomes fully operational.
While acknowledging the potential benefits of the initiative, stakeholders urged the NCC to implement the policy gradually and provide a realistic timeline and clearer procedures for industry participants.
According to minutes of the stakeholder engagement shared with TheCable, the NCC said it would consider the concerns and recommendations raised by participants.
The stakeholders’ concerns echo implementation challenges previously addressed in Kenya, where authorities reportedly gave industry stakeholders two months’ notice before a similar policy took effect in January 2025.
Goodness Anunobi
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