The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is introducing a system to verify phones and other devices that connect to mobile networks in Nigeria.
The system, known as the Device Management System (DMS), checks devices using their unique IMEI numbers. These include mobile phones, tablets, POS machines and routers.
If your device is not verified, you may receive an SMS warning that it could be disconnected from Nigerian mobile networks after 30 cumulative days.
Important: This is different from NIN-SIM linkage. The NCC is checking your device, not your NIN or personal identity. Receiving a warning does not automatically mean your phone is fake or stolen.
Step 1: Find Your Phone’s IMEI Number
Your IMEI is a unique identification number assigned to your phone.
– Open your phone’s dialler.
– Dial `*#06#`.
– Your IMEI number will appear on the screen.
– Write it down or take a screenshot for reference.
Some phones have two IMEI numbers, especially those that support two SIM cards.
Step 2: Check Your Phone’s Registration Status
To check whether your phone is registered:
1. Insert an active Nigerian SIM card into the phone you want to check.
2. Open your phone’s dialler.
3. Dial `*315#`.
4. A menu should appear with options similar to these:
– 1. Check this device.
– 2. Check another device.
5. Reply with 1 to check the phone you are using. Choose option 2 if you want to check another device.
Follow the instructions on the screen and wait for the result.
READ ALSO: NCC Begins Registration Of SIM-Enabled Devices
Step 3: Understand the Result
You may receive one of the following responses:
If your phone is verified: The message should confirm that your device is approved for use on Nigerian mobile networks. Take a screenshot and keep it for reference.
If your phone is not verified: You may receive a warning that your device has not been registered or approved. If you also receive an SMS giving you 30 cumulative days, take it seriously and act promptly.
If the code does not work, try again later or use another network’s SIM card. You can also contact the NCC on 315 for assistance.
Step 4: What to Do If Your Phone Is Not Verified
The next step depends on where you bought your phone.
If You Bought Your Phone From a Shop in Nigeria
Contact the shop or seller where you purchased the phone.
Provide the following:
– Your purchase receipt or invoice.
– Your phone’s IMEI number.
– A screenshot of the verification result.
– A screenshot of any warning SMS you received.
Ask the seller to confirm the device’s registration and help resolve the issue. Importers and dealers are generally responsible for ensuring that devices are properly registered before sale.
If You Bought Your Phone Abroad or From a Private Seller
If you imported the phone yourself or bought it second-hand from an individual, contact the NCC on 315 for guidance on how to resolve the issue. You can also visit the NCC official portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker
Keep any available proof of purchase, the phone’s packaging and its IMEI number.
There may be limits to what individuals can register themselves, so confirm the current procedure directly with the NCC.
Step 5: Check Whether Your Phone Model Is Approved
You can also check the NCC’s approved handset list on its official website:
https://ncc.gov.ng/page/approved-handsets
Search for your phone’s exact model number.
However, remember that an approved phone model and a verified individual device are not necessarily the same thing. Checking the approved handset list does not replace checking your device through the USSD service.
For the latest instructions, visit the NCC’s official website at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker or call 315.