By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a major move to strengthen digital security and safeguard national identity, the National Communications Authority (NatCA) has issued a public directive mandating all mobile network operators (MNOs) in Sierra Leone to verify and link subscribers’ SIM cards to their respective National Identification Numbers (NIN).
The directive, which was released via a public notice, is part of a nationwide campaign to enhance the integrity of mobile communications and prevent identity-related fraud. NatCA emphasized that all mobile subscribers must visit their nearest service provider outlets to update their SIM registration details and ensure that their NIN is accurately linked to their mobile number.
Effective October 1, 2025, mobile subscribers who fail to comply with the directive will face service interruptions. According to the notice, unverified users risk being barred from accessing essential services such as calls, SMS, and data until they fulfil the requirement.
“This is part of our continued effort to protect the identity of citizens and residents in Sierra Leone,” the notice read. “Linking SIMs to NINs ensures greater transparency and accountability in mobile usage and helps the government and service providers to combat fraudulent activities more effectively.”
The verification exercise is being rolled out in collaboration with all licensed MNOs operating in the country. These include major telecom providers who are expected to establish and publicize designated outlets where subscribers can complete the verification process.
To ensure public compliance, NatCA has launched an awareness campaign urging citizens to act promptly. The authority is encouraging mobile users to bring their valid NIN and SIM card to their mobile network provider for the update. In addition to walk-in centres, some operators are expected to deploy mobile teams to reach remote communities and vulnerable populations who may face difficulties accessing urban service points.
NatCA also issued a stern warning to the public to avoid purchasing SIM cards from unauthorized dealers. Consumers have been advised to buy new SIMs only from official service provider outlets across the country to avoid future complications with registration and verification.
The initiative mirrors similar measures taken by other countries across the region aimed at curbing cybercrime, improving national security, and building a reliable digital identity framework. Experts believe that the SIM-NIN linkage will also improve the delivery of government services that depend on verified digital identities, such as financial inclusion, health services, and disaster response.
With less than three months to go before the October deadline, the authority is calling on all Sierra Leoneans to take the directive seriously and complete the verification process as early as possible to avoid last-minute congestion and potential service disruption.
Failure to comply, NatCA warns, will result in unavoidable consequences that could affect communication, access to mobile money services, and other daily digital interactions.
