The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has expressed optimism about its strategy to stamp out unapproved mobile devices in the country. According to NCC Director, Technical Standards and Network Integrity, Mr. Edoyemi Ogoh, the Commission has made significant progress in typing nearly 231 mobile devices since 2001 when the GSM revolution began. However, experts argue that the Commission's task is far from over.
The grey market for mobile devices is a major challenge for the NCC. Despite the Commission's efforts, the number of unapproved devices in circulation is estimated to be far higher than the 231 million registered devices. With nearly 200 million active mobile subscribers in the country, it is unlikely that all subscribers are using approved devices. The NCC's strategy to stamp out unapproved devices will require a more comprehensive approach.
The proliferation of grey market devices is attributed to their affordability and availability. When GSM services were first introduced in Nigeria, the cost of acquisition was prohibitive, and grey marketers entered the industry to liberalize ownership of devices. This led to a surge in the number of devices in circulation, many of which were not approved by the NCC. Today, devices from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) such as Nokia, Samsung, and Alcatel are widely available.
The NCC's task is complicated by the fact that many mobile subscribers are not aware of the need to verify the approval status of their devices. The Commission has prescribed a code *315 # for subscribers to check if their devices are registered, but many subscribers do not take the pain to verify. This lack of awareness and the widespread availability of unapproved devices make it difficult for the NCC to achieve its goal.
The mobile market in Nigeria has evolved significantly over the years, with new OEMs entering the market and competing for market share. While brands like Samsung and iPhone are popular, they are not affordable for many Nigerians. As a result, other products have entered the market to give these brands a run for their money. The NCC's challenge is to find a way to regulate the market and ensure that all devices in circulation are approved.
The Commission's strategy to stamp out unapproved devices will also require the cooperation of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). Unless the NCC plans to impose sanctions on MNOs for accepting unregistered devices, the battle against grey market devices will be difficult to win. MNOs are in business to make money, and they will continue to sell SIM cards to subscribers who may be using unapproved devices.
The NCC's goal of stamping out unapproved mobile devices is a laudable one, but it will require a more comprehensive approach. The Commission will need to work with stakeholders, including MNOs and device manufacturers, to educate subscribers about the risks of using unapproved devices and to develop effective strategies for regulating the market.
Key points
- The NCC has typed nearly 231 mobile devices since 2001.
- The grey market for mobile devices is a major challenge for the NCC.
- The Commission's strategy will require the cooperation of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and device manufacturers.
