9mobile subscribers stranded in Nigeria

Millions of 9mobile subscribers in Nigeria have been left stranded due to the telecom operator’s decision to block porting requests, leaving them without access to basic services like calls, texts, and internet.

The issue, which began last year, has worsened in recent months, with subscribers reporting that they have been unable to receive or make calls, send texts, or use their SIM cards.

The SIM cards currently show “No service” or “Emergency calls only” nationwide.

Subscribers have accused 9mobile of blocking their porting requests, preventing them from switching to other networks.

Many have taken to social media to express their frustration and call on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to intervene.

A subscriber, who preferred to remain anonymous, said he has lost business due to the poor network services. “I have been using 9mobile for years, but the network has been terrible. I have tried to port to another network, but 9mobile has blocked my request. I am appealing to the NCC to help us,” he said.

The NCC has been criticized for its inaction in addressing the issue.

Subscribers have called on the regulatory body to intervene and direct 9mobile to restore its services and allow customers to port to other networks.

9mobile pleads

Meanwhile, 9mobile has categorically refuted false and misleading rumours suggesting an alleged shutdown of its operations in Nigeria.

The management of 9mobile made the disclosure in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

9mobile said that the claims were entirely baseless and aimed at causing unnecessary panic among its valued subscribers.

“We understand that some customers have recently faced challenges, particularly with Mobile Number Portability (MNP), a service that enables seamless network switching.

“We want to clarify that 9mobile has never restricted customers from porting to other networks,” it said.

The telco said it remained fully compliant with industry regulations, and was committed to delivering fair, transparent and customer-centric services.

The telco explained that a temporary technical issue had impacted Mobile Number Portability (MNP) services, but the problem had largely been resolved.

It noted that some minor delays might still occur due to ongoing system optimisations, but the telco was actively working to ensure users a smoother experience.

“As a proudly Nigerian brand, we embody the resilient spirit of our people and remain steadfast in our commitment to overcoming challenges.Travel guides

“We acknowledge the temporary service disruptions some customers may have experienced in different locations.

“However, we assure you that these disruptions are part of a broader transformation effort aimed at modernising our infrastructure and improving overall service quality,” 9mobile said.

It said its ongoing investments in network upgrades and service expansion would soon yield significant improvements, ensuring reliable connectivity for individuals, businesses, and communities.

According to the company, in spite of the challenges it was experiencing, 9mobile is making significant progress and remains optimistic about the future.

“We remain dedicated to providing exceptional service and keeping our subscribers connected to limitless opportunities,” it said.

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