NCC Launches Device Checker to Help Nigerians Identify Unapproved Phones

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a device-checking service to help consumers determine whether mobile phones are approved for use on Nigeria’s telecommunications networks.

The service allows users to check a phone’s status by dialling *315# or visiting the commission’s official Device Checker website.

The NCC said about 231 million devices already operating on Nigerian networks were registered automatically under the new framework. This means existing users generally do not need to take additional steps to register their devices.

The initiative is designed to address the use of counterfeit, cloned and non-compliant mobile phones while strengthening consumer protection and improving network reliability.

The commission has advised Nigerians to check the status of a device before purchasing a new or second-hand phone. The measure is intended to help buyers identify potentially unapproved devices before making payment.

Consumers can find their phone’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number by dialling *#06#. The unique number can then be used as part of the device-checking process.

The NCC said the new framework took effect on October 7, introducing another measure aimed at improving compliance with the country’s telecommunications requirements.

For consumers, checking a phone before purchase could help reduce the risk of buying a device that may not meet the commission’s approval requirements. Buyers should use the NCC’s official channels to confirm a device’s status.

The initiative also places greater emphasis on checking device compliance in a market where new and second-hand phones are widely sold.