Effective today, the 22nd of April 2013, you can now change from one mobile network to another and still retain your phone number.
This is due to the much awaited take off of Mobile Number Portability (MNP). Mobile Number Portability makes it possible for a subscriber to move from one mobile network to another one – perhaps due to poor service – without changing your phone number.
After several postponements, it would be flagged off today with huge publicity. The Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) has already announced the guidelines for the initiative. Check the website for the guidelines.
Even though NCC and telecoms operators (MTN, Airtel, Etisalat, Glo) as well as MNP service providers, have confirmed their readiness for the scheme, they may be some teething problems considering the fact a large number of the 100+ million subscribers will want to change to other networks because of the relative poor service experienced on some networks.
NCC, in anticipation over the weekend, has already said that technical hitches may be expected within the first few days of the service launch, but implored subscribers to show understanding. It also advised Nigerians to access its website for detailed information on MNP.
The Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Dr. Eugene Juwah, noted that subscribers were expected to abide by certain rules to give the system a smooth take off. “The following are very important: As a subscriber, you can port (change) to another operator. However, you will be restricted from porting (changing) your number to a third operator within 90 days of a previous port; you can port your number as many times as you like in a given year. This means there is a 90-day restriction before your next port”, he said.
“To move your number to a new mobile operator, you need to bring proof of identity such as identity card, passport or driving licence or an officially-validated photographic identity document. Also, the mobile number you wish to port must be validly registered.”
Mr Juwah also hinted that subscribers can port their numbers at any customer care office, retail shop or outlet of their chosen new service provider and meet with the authorized sales person to request to port their number. He also informed the subscribers that porting is not available by telephone, online or other electronic means.
Personally I have been on one Network for the last 6 years and I don’t think I will switch. I have also tried other networks in the same timeframe and I daresay I will remain on the same network — at least for now.
Will You Switch?
Francis Ebuehi
