According to a report in Leadership Nigeria, the measures are aimed at addressing the increasing crime rate in the country, particularly the spate of kidnapping in the Southern part of the country.

The minister also announced that government would soon ban the sale of new SIM cards in public places, except in designated areas.

Akunyili said: “I want to state clearly that there is no going back on SIM cards registration. The first phase involving registration of new has commenced.

“You are hereby directed to stop forthwith any sale of new SIM cards without capturing the necessary data. Government demands and expects full compliance.”

She, however, directed the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) to ensure that these issues are adequately addressed in good time to ensure the un-impeded realisation of the project. The minister added that the second phase of the exercise which involves registration of existing SIM cards will soon commence.