After All My Efforts, Security Agencies Not Using NIN-SIM Linkage To Track Terrorists — Pantami

A former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami said he is frustrated that Nigerian security agencies are not using the National Identification Number (NIN) and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) linkage policy to track terrorists in the country.

Pantami disclosed this in a statement via his official X handle on Monday.

The former minister stated that he tested the efficiency of the policy while in office to track criminals and that the reason the Nigerian government finds it difficult to arrest terrorists and bandits disturbing the peace of the country is due to the relevant stakeholders failing to take advantage of the policy.

He said, “NIN-SIM policy has been working. However, the relevant institutions fighting criminality are to be requested to ensure they utilise it effectively when a crime is committed.

“Lack of utilising it is the main problem, not the policy. While in office, I know 3 instances where the policy was utilised, and it led to the success of their operations.”

“On the lack of utilisation, I am more worried than anyone, as my life was threatened by criminals for reintroducing it, including on BBC Hausa & and national dailies, I resisted and ensured its implementation.

“If it is not being utilised by the relevant institutions in charge of securing lives and property, then I am more frustrated than any person, as I sacrificed my life and ignored all the threats to life.

“This is just a point out of 100 on the policy. May the Almighty rescue all the kidnapped and bring absolute peace and stability to Nigeria, and may He (SWT) continue to guide our leaders and help them always in discharging their responsibilities,” he added.

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration authorised the NIN-SIM policy for implementation. Beginning on April 4, 2022, all telephone companies were required to prohibit all outgoing calls on unlinked cell phone lines.

According to the Nigerian Communications Commission, the policy’s goal was to enhance the government’s strategic planning, notably in the areas of security and socioeconomic projections.

Pantami had raised the alarm that his life was under threat over the implementation of the policy.

In September 2022, the minister also hinted that campaigns of calumny were allegedly sponsored against him to stop the policy.

Despite the NIN-SIM policy, cases of kidnappings and abductions continue to rise daily, prompting residents to question the former minister on the efficiency and effectiveness of the programme he championed while in office.