Mobile network operators in Nigeria have begun implementing the new USSD code framework that will see all network providers use a unified code format. Previously, all network providers had specific USSD codes that customers used to access their services. The Nigerian Communications Commission had in March 2023 directed all telecommunications providers to begin the process of harmonizing USSD codes. The deadline was set as Wednesday, May 17, 2023.
Following a review by the NCC, the new codes are as follows:
- NIN — *996#
- VAS — *305#
- Share services — *321#
- Account Balance — *310#
- Data plans — *312#
- Airtime recharge — *311#
- Borrowing services — *303#
- Data balance — *323#
Not all of the network providers have fully implemented these codes, so users can still use old codes to access USSD services. MTN, for example, has all the codes except the code for data plans working, while Airtel has all except codes for airtime recharge. Other network providers are expected to fully implement the changes soon.
What are unified USSD codes?
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Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) is a telecommunications system that enables users to perform certain functions. These include checking airtime balance, airtime recharge, and accessing value-added services.
USSD services do not require an Internet connection to function and have been an instant hit in sub-Saharan Africa. Where it was mainly used by telecommunications operators, it has now been adopted by the banking industry, and virtually every commercial bank in Nigeria has a USSD code. The effect is that customers can check their account balances, open accounts, and send money using a USSD code.
All these competing services have different codes for different purposes. Sending airtime, for example, requires a different code from checking airtime balance. With many Nigerians using more than one network provider, the NCC wants to harmonize these codes. Consequently, an MTN subscriber can now use the same code for airtime recharges on Airtel or Glo.
Why is the NCC pushing for unified USSD codes?
The NCC began pushing for the harmonisation of USSD short codes in 2017. That year, it hired a project consultant to conduct research and spearhead the project.
A report it released stated that the major benefit of a harmonised USSD system would be eliminating the need for users to memorise several codes. It also stated that 84% of 3-digit codes, 98% of 4-digit codes, and 99% of 5-digit codes would be free for reallocation once the system is implemented. But these are not the only benefits the NCC envisages.
It believes that it would stimulate competition among telecommunications service providers. The NCC also believes that the process would streamline marketing efforts. However, the report discloses that this process would have some disadvantages. One of the disadvantages it identified was the need for network providers to reconfigure their equipment. The report also stated that network providers could lose some of their customers as a result of the change.
Does this affect banking services?
In the NCC’s report on the harmonization of the shortcodes, a recommendation was made to allow banks to retain their codes as any change will significantly affect service delivery.
According to Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licenced Telecom Operators, the unified USSD codes only cover telecommunication services and do not affect banking services. Therefore, you can continue using your banking services without any interference.
Additionally, it implies that any mobile network provider—whether it be MTN, Glo, 9Mobile and, Airtel that refuses to migrate will be unable to provide services to its customers. Also, it indicates that all mobile network services will utilize a single customer support number, as well as a single code for credit recharge and a code for checking data balances.
As a result, MTN, GLO, 9mobile and, Airtel have started notifying their millions of customers to use the new transaction codes. This article gives an update on the new harmonized USSD codes for Nigeria’s four major mobile networks: MTN, GLO, 9Mobile, and, Airtel.
The new ussd code for MTN Logo. Image Source: Reuters/Steven Nicolas/File Photo
MTN NG
If you use MTN, you might have observed that *556# and its variants are no longer functioning. The same applies to the data code, which was once *131#. These are the new codes.
- For airtime recharge, the new code is *311* Voucher PIN #
- To check MTN airtime balance, the new code is *310#
- To borrow airtime, dial *303#
- To buy data, dial *312#
- To share data, dial *321#
- To check your data balance, dial *323#
- For MTN Value-added Services, dial *305#
- To link your NIN to your MTN line, dial *996#
To check your MTN phone number,
- Dial *123#. Choose Account Info or 1.
- From the new menu, choose My Number, and your number will be displayed in the pop-up on your screen.
- You can also just dial *123*1*1# for a straightforward path.
Glo NG
- For GLO airtime recharge, the new code is *311* Voucher PIN #
- To check GLO airtime balance, the new code is *310#
- To borrow airtime, dial *303#
- To buy data, dial *312#
- To share data, dial *321#
- To check your data balance, dial *323#
- For GLO Value-added Services, dial *305#
- To link your NIN to your GLO line, dial *996#
9Mobile
- For airtime recharge, the new code is *311* Voucher PIN #
- To check 9Mobile airtime balance, the new code is *310#
- To borrow airtime, dial *303#
- To buy data, dial *312#
- To share data, dial *321#
- To check your data balance, dial *323#
- For 9Mobile Value-added Services, dial *305#
- To link your NIN to your 9Mobile line, dial *996#
Airtel NG
Airtel users will also need to let the old *124# for checking balance go. The new USSD codes are:
- For airtime recharge, the new code is *311* Voucher PIN #
- To check Airtel’s airtime balance, the new code is *310#
- To borrow airtime, dial *303#
- To buy data, dial *312#
- To share data, dial *321#
- To check your data balance, dial *323#
- For Airtel Value-added Services, dial *305#
- To link your NIN to your Airtel line, dial *996#
NOTE: USSD codes that remain unchanged are:
Note: If you try any of these codes and they do not work, you may have to try the old ones, as some network providers have yet to adopt the new USSD codes fully. It is also important to note that the commission did not change some codes and their functions; these codes are
- 996 now verifies subscriber identity module (SIM) registration or NIN-SIM linkage.
- 2442 is retained for Do-Not-Disturb (DND) unsolicited messaging complaint management.
- 3232 is also retained for porting services, otherwise called mobile number portability
