The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged Nigerians to verify the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of mobile devices before purchase to avoid counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised phones.
The Commission said its Device Checker Platform allows consumers to confirm the Type Approval status of SIM-enabled devices, as part of efforts to protect users and strengthen the integrity of telecommunications networks.
The NCC Zonal Controller disclosed this during a media briefing on the Commission’s technical standards and network integrity initiatives held at its zonal office on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
The controller said the platform was designed to ensure that devices connected to Nigerian networks comply with established technical and regulatory standards.
The Commission said it had made progress in implementing the initiative, including streamlining licensing and regularisation processes that enabled a significant number of device dealers in Kano State to obtain licences.
It also conducted sensitisation engagements with importers and other industry stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country to improve awareness of Type Approval requirements and Device Checker obligations.
The NCC said it had developed a user-friendly Device Checker application that enables authorised stakeholders to scan device IMEIs and upload information directly to the platform, making compliance easier and more efficient.
Consumers can verify the status of their devices through the “Check Your Device” portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker by entering the IMEI number.
NCC unveils device checker to tackle fake phones, protect users
The Commission also directed manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to consult its Type Approval and Device Verification Guide at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide to understand their regulatory obligations.
Organisations seeking Equipment Type Approval can access the application requirements and procedures through the Type Approval section of the NCC website.
The Commission, however, clarified that the Device Checker Platform was not a surveillance tool and did not access personal data, messages, photographs, contacts, financial information or other private content stored on devices.
It said the platform was limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification.
The NCC urged consumers to patronise reputable and licensed dealers and verify device status before purchase, while encouraging industry stakeholders to comply fully with its Type Approval requirements.
It added that consumers could seek assistance or lodge complaints through its 315 toll-free consumer number.
The Commission said the initiative was part of its commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, network integrity and the development of a trusted communications ecosystem in Nigeria.
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