NIN linkage: Nigerians react as MTN disconnects thousands of customers

MTN Nigeria has disconnected thousands of subscribers following their failure to link the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) with National Identity Numbers (NINs) and other issues, a move that has sparked outrage.

Nigerians on the microblogging site, X are displaying their frustration over the disconnection of their SIM by MTN despite allegedly linking their SIMs.

This move is part of an industry-wide directive requiring network operators to bar subscribers whose lines have not been linked to their NIN.

“Unblock your line anytime, anywhere! Here are easy steps you can take. Get started at http://nin.mtn.ng. Need additional support from our stores?” MTN said in reaction to the development.

Earlier this year, MTN said it disconnected 4.2 million lines following the expiration of the February 28 deadline to link their SIM with NIN.

The company disclosed in a report that 19 million lines on its network are currently being verified, and 4.3 million have been verified as of February 2024

Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) moved the deadline it set for disconnection of lines that have not complied with the directive to July 31, 2024.

The NCC said it would give telecommunications consumers more time to ensure their submitted NIN details are properly verified.

Reacting to the disconnection, A.O. Yusuf of Sokoto an MTN subscriber with the handle, @DEGEO7, said “My MTN line which is my official line has been barred. I have long linked my NIN so, 

Another MTN customer, Rabiu Abdulkadir expressed his frustration via his X handle, @Rerbiu.

Abdulkadir said, “We deserve to be treated with respect and dignity in this country. I’m extremely disappointed that my MTN line, which I’ve used faithfully for over 10 years, was suddenly barred this morning without any prior notification. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve linked it to my NIN.”

Rita, an MTN subscriber with X handle, @Ritzy792 said, “@MTNNG barred my MTN line of over 16 years this morning when in fact, my line is linked to my NIN.