The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a new regulatory framework known as the Telecommunications Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) aimed at reducing fraudulent activities within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Aminu Maida, disclosed this during a one-day stakeholders’ forum held in Abuja. He was represented at the event by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholders Management, Rimini Makama.
According to Maida, the Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN), commonly known as a SIM or mobile phone number, has evolved into a critical identifier for financial transactions, digital authentication, and access to essential services across Nigeria’s economy.
He warned that this evolution has also created new vulnerabilities, particularly through the fraudulent use of churned, recycled, swapped, and barred numbers, which are increasingly being exploited for identity theft and financial fraud.
“These practices have become a significant vector for financial fraud and identity theft, eroding public trust in our digital platforms,” he said.
The NCC explained that the TIRMS initiative is designed to strengthen identity protection mechanisms and reduce risks associated with telecom-based fraud, which has become a growing concern amid Nigeria’s expanding digital financial services sector.
The regulator noted that the new system is part of broader efforts to safeguard users, improve transparency, and enhance confidence in digital communication and financial platforms.
Industry stakeholders at the forum were also briefed on the need for stronger collaboration between telecom operators, financial institutions, and regulators to ensure effective implementation of the framework.
The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to building a safer and more secure telecommunications environment that supports innovation while protecting consumers from emerging digital threats.
