The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a new regulation banning anyone below 18 years from owning Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards.

The new regulation is part of a modified Telephone Subscribers Regulations published on the commission’s website.

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This proposed regulation puts SIM card ownership in the same bracket as requirements for purchasing alcohol and driving.

“Subscriber means a person not below the age of 18 years who subscribes to communications services by purchasing a subscription medium or entering into a subscription contract with a licensee,” the draft signed by Prof Umar Garba Danbatta, the commission’s Executive Vice Chairman, read.

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The commission said the proposed regulations were made in line with the powers conferred upon the commission by section 70 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003.