Friday, 25 July 2025



Banks and Mobile Operators Directed to Enroll Customers in NIN-Linked Payment System
By Amin Kef-Ranger

During the weekly Press Conference held on July 22, 2025 by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Minister Chernor Bah provided important updates on critical identity verification measures aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s financial and telecommunications sectors.

Minister Chernor Bah announced that, in line with the Bank of Sierra Leone’s directive, all citizens are required to register and link their bank accounts with their National Identification Number (NIN). Effective immediately, new bank accounts must be linked to a NIN upon opening, while existing account holders have until December 31, 2025, to complete this mandatory linkage.

In addition, starting October 1, 2025, the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) will deactivate mobile phone numbers that are not registered and linked with a valid NIN. That initiative is intended to enhance financial security, protect users and enable smooth digital transactions across the country.

The Minister also disclosed that commercial banks and mobile network operators have been instructed to enroll NIN-linked customers into the National Payment Switch system. This platform facilitates seamless transactions between bank accounts and mobile wallets, promoting greater financial inclusion and convenience.

Chernor Bah urged all Sierra Leoneans to act promptly to comply with those requirements to avoid service disruptions and contribute to the country’s digital transformation efforts.

The Press Conference featured presentations from various Government Ministries, Departments and partner Agencies, reflecting a coordinated approach to implementing those reforms. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/banks-and-mobile-operators-directed-to-enroll-customers-in-nin-linked-payment-system/

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