House of Representatives has asked the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the validity period for inactive phone numbers before they are reassigned to new users to 18 months.
Recall that SIM card security concerns, prompted the NCC launched the Telecoms Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) late March 2026 to curb fraud linked to SIM recycling.
This portal will allow regulators and banks to track reassigned numbers.
NCC regulations require 360 days of inactivity before a SIM can be recycled.
But the House of Representatives, said the proposed extension from the current timeline would enhance compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.
The House resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State, Billy Osawaru.
Leading the debate on the motion, Mr Osawaru warned that the current practice of recycling dormant SIM cards without sufficient public notification exposes unsuspecting Nigerians to embarrassment, extortion and even wrongful criminal suspicion.
He said some reassigned numbers often remain tied to sensitive personal records, including bank verification numbers and national identity data, creating opportunities for misuse by new subscribers or criminal actors.
Adopting the motion, the House called on the NCC to ensure inactive SIM cards earmarked for reallocation are published in national newspapers during a six-month notice period and that details of such numbers be shared with security agencies to improve transparency and aid crime prevention.
The house noted that the move would help reduce risks associated with recycled phone numbers while improving accountability in the telecommunications sector.
Following adoption of the motion, the House mandated its Committees on Communications and Commerce to engage the NCC, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and other stakeholders and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
