The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a device-verification service that allows Nigerians to check whether mobile phones and other SIM-enabled devices meet regulatory requirements by dialling *315#. The initiative is part of efforts to curb counterfeit and non-compliant devices and protect consumers from purchasing phones that may be barred from Nigerian mobile networks.

The Commission said the service supports an enhanced Type Approval compliance framework that took effect on October 7, 2026. The framework strengthens the monitoring of communications equipment to ensure that devices imported, sold and used in Nigeria comply with applicable technical standards.

According to the NCC, consumers can check a device by dialling *315# and following the instructions or visiting its official Device Checker portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker. Buyers checking a phone other than the one they are currently using may be asked to provide its 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, which can be displayed by dialling *#06# on the device.

The Commission has advised prospective buyers, particularly those purchasing second-hand phones, to verify a device before making payment. It explained that counterfeit phones imitate genuine products without the original manufacturer’s authorisation, while cloned devices use IMEI numbers assigned to other legitimate devices. However, an unsuccessful verification result does not automatically establish that a phone is counterfeit.

The NCC clarified that consumers buying devices from sellers in Nigeria are not ordinarily required to obtain Type Approval themselves. The responsibility rests primarily with manufacturers, importers, suppliers and other businesses placing communications equipment on the market. The Commission also says phones that were already connected to Nigerian mobile networks before the framework took effect were automatically verified, although buyers should still check used devices before purchasing them.

Addressing privacy concerns, the Commission said the system uses device-identification information, including IMEI numbers, to support regulatory checks. According to its published guidance, the service does not give the NCC access to users’ personal files, photographs, contacts, messages or the content of their calls, and it does not track users’ physical locations or movements.

The NCC has urged Nigerians to use only its official verification channels and warned consumers never to disclose one-time verification codes to sellers, callers or other individuals. Anyone experiencing difficulties with a device check is advised to contact their service provider or seek assistance through the Commission’s official support channels. The initiative is intended to improve device compliance, strengthen network integrity and help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.