The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to extend the waiting period for reassigning inactive phone numbers to 18 months.

Lawmakers said the proposed extension from the current 12 months—would enhance compliance with the Nigeria Data Protection Act and reduce risks of fraud, identity theft, and wrongful criminal allegations linked to recycled SIM cards.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Billy Osawaru, who represents Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency of Edo State.

Osawaru proposed that the additional six months be used to publicly announce inactive SIM cards slated for reassignment in national newspapers, and to notify law enforcement agencies once or twice yearly.

He said the measure would improve transparency and help resolve cases where reassigned numbers are linked to criminal activity carried out by previous users.

Citing existing regulations, the lawmaker noted that telecom operators currently deactivate and recycle inactive numbers after 180 days and up to one year of dormancy, often without notifying former subscribers.

He warned that such practices could expose new users to risks, especially where numbers remain tied to sensitive data such as Bank Verification Numbers and National Identity Numbers.

The motion received broad support and was adopted without opposition during plenary.

Following the resolution, the House mandated its Committees on Communications and Commerce to collaborate with the NCC, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, and other agencies to strengthen safeguards for telecom subscribers, with a report expected within four weeks.