The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a *315# USSD service that allows mobile phone users to check whether their devices comply with Nigeria’s telecommunications requirements, as the regulator steps up efforts to tackle counterfeit and non-compliant phones.
The service enables consumers to check their devices directly from their mobile phones by dialling *315# and following the instructions displayed. Users can also access the checker through the commission’s official website.
The NCC advised Nigerians to confirm a phone’s status before paying for it, particularly when buying second-hand devices. Brandspur Brand News reports that the initiative is intended to help consumers avoid purchasing counterfeit or non-compliant phones that may not meet the requirements for use on Nigerian mobile networks.
The service offers buyers another step to take before completing a transaction, especially in the second-hand phone market, where checking a device’s status in advance could help them make a more informed purchase.
Consumers can access the device checker by dialling *315# or visiting the NCC’s official portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker.
The commission’s announcement places responsibility on buyers to verify their devices before making payment, rather than relying solely on a seller’s assurances about a phone’s authenticity or compliance.
The NCC did not provide further details in the announcement about the number of counterfeit devices in circulation or the penalties applicable to sellers of non-compliant phones.
