Nigerians to Learn New USSD Codes as NCC Implements Uniform Shortcodes

After a prolonged five-year wait, the Nigerian telecoms industry is finally preparing for the implementation of uniform shortcodes, as recommended by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). These harmonized shortcodes will enable customers of various mobile operators and banks to use the same USSD codes for tasks like checking airtime balance, purchasing airtime, or conducting bank transactions. The benefits of this harmonization include easier memorization for users and a more cohesive regulatory environment.

Currently, Nigeria has multiple mobile network operators and commercial banks, each providing their customers with unique shortcodes for essential services. This has led to a situation where customers need to remember several codes for various tasks, causing inconvenience and confusion.

Some popular examples of these codes are *737# by GTCO and *556# by MTN. Successful advertising campaigns by businesses like GTCO have further popularized custom USSD codes for payments, making them a common practice.

With the implementation of harmonized shortcodes, banks and businesses will need to shift their focus from individual marketing efforts to joint publicity for the new codes. However, this transition will simplify customers’ lives as they will no longer have to search for different codes constantly.

The NCC’s aim with this harmonization process is to bring the Nigerian telecommunications sector in line with global best practices. Several countries have already adopted similar approaches to harmonized shortcodes, with Ghana being an early adopter in 2014.

The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) is collaborating with the NCC to complete the migration to the new set of codes by May 17th, 2023. As part of the proposed harmonized shortcodes, 300 will be designated for call centers, 303 for airtime borrowing services, 310 for balance checking, 311 for credit recharge, 312 for data plans, and 2442 for porting services.

The implementation of harmonized shortcodes is expected to alleviate the burden on customers who currently have to remember multiple codes for various tasks. By streamlining the process and replicating international best practices, the NCC aims to create a more user-friendly and efficient telecommunications environment in Nigeria.

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