Telecom Operators Clarify Line Barring Process, Offer Easy Unblocking Steps

The Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has addressed recent concerns regarding the ongoing subscriber line barring.

ALTON in a statement on firmly refuted claims linking the barring process to any planned national protest, emphasizing that the two events are entirely unrelated.

The association clarified that the current line barring is part of a long-standing effort to harmonize the SIM Registration database with the National Identity Database. This process, which has been ongoing for several months, aims to enhance the integrity of the National SIM registration database.

ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, explained, “Customers who had their lines blocked recently are those whom their service providers found a mismatch between their records on both databases.”

He advised affected customers to contact their service providers through official channels for resolution.

To assist subscribers in unblocking their lines, ALTON has provided a list of simple steps for each major network operator:

1. Airtel users can dial *121# and input their eleven-digit NIN number.
2. 9Mobile subscribers should dial 2008#.
3. Glo customers can dial 109 followed by their NIN number and the # sign.
4. MTN users are directed to visit nin.mtn.ng to check their NIN status and link if necessary.
5. Smile customers can email their valid NIN to [email protected] or call 07020444444.
6. Spectranet users have multiple options, including calling their toll-free line or visiting a Spectranet store.
7. Ntel subscribers need to visit an Ntel store with their NIN for verification.

The association emphasized that if these online methods fail, subscribers can visit any walk-in center of their respective operators to unblock their lines.

ALTON reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerian government while upholding citizens’ rights. “As an industry, we respect and commit to protecting the rights of all people to communicate, to share information freely and responsibly, and to enjoy privacy and security regarding their data and their use of digital communications,” the statement read.

The NIN/SIM link registration deadline has been set for July 31, 2024. ALTON’s clarification comes as a timely reminder for all subscribers to ensure their SIM cards are properly registered and linked to their National Identity Numbers to avoid service disruptions.