The House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to review its mobile phone device verification requirements over concerns that the policy could increase phone prices and limit access to affordable mobile devices across the country.
The lawmakers warned that the policy could lead to genuine second-hand mobile phones being wrongly rejected or blocked, potentially causing financial losses for consumers, importers and retailers.
The resolution followed a motion moved by Sani Wakili, a member of the House representing a constituency in Kano State, who urged the commission to reconsider the implementation of the device verification framework.
Wakili called on the NCC to engage relevant stakeholders before proceeding with the policy, stressing the need to address concerns about its potential impact on consumers and the telecommunications market.
The lawmakers also expressed concern that the cost and complexity of complying with the requirements could place additional financial pressure on small-scale phone importers and retailers, particularly those operating in the informal sector.
They noted that Nigeria’s mobile phone market depends significantly on both new and second-hand devices, with used phones providing an affordable alternative for many Nigerians who cannot afford brand-new models.
According to the lawmakers, any verification system that mistakenly identifies genuine devices as invalid could prevent consumers from accessing telecommunications services despite purchasing their phones legitimately.
They further warned that additional compliance costs imposed on importers and retailers could be transferred to consumers through higher selling prices, making mobile phones less affordable, especially for low-income households.
Mobile phones remain essential tools for communication, education, business transactions and access to digital services, making affordability a major concern for consumers across the country.
The NCC, as Nigeria’s telecommunications regulator, is responsible for overseeing the industry and ensuring that regulatory measures support consumer protection and the development of the digital economy.
The House’s call for a review is aimed at ensuring that the verification requirements address legitimate regulatory concerns without creating unnecessary difficulties for consumers and businesses.
The lawmakers urged the commission to consult relevant stakeholders and carefully consider the possible economic consequences of the framework, particularly for small businesses and Nigerians who depend on affordable mobile devices.
