If you use a mobile phone in Nigeria, you may have noticed some changes in how you access various services from your network provider. This is because the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has approved and implemented a new set of unified Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes for all mobile networks in the country, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile.
USSD codes are the short numeric codes that you dial on your phone to perform different tasks, such as checking your balance, recharging your airtime, subscribing to data plans, borrowing credit, and so on. Previously, each network provider had its own unique set of USSD codes for these services, which meant that you had to memorize different codes for different networks.
However, with the new harmonized USSD codes, you can now use the same code across all networks for the same service. For example, to check your balance, you can simply dial *310# on any network, instead of *556# for MTN, *123# for Airtel, *124# for Glo, and *232# for 9Mobile.
The NCC said that the harmonization of USSD codes is aimed at making life easier for Nigerians by reducing the confusion and complexity of memorizing different codes for different networks. It is also expected to create a more user-friendly relationship between customers and telecom operators, as well as provide a cohesive regulatory framework that is consistent with global best practices.
The new harmonized USSD codes are as follows:
- Call Center/Help Desk – 300
- Voice Mail Deposit – 301
- Voice Mail Retrieval -302
- Borrow Services – 303
- STOP Services – 304
- Check Balance – 310
- Credit Recharge – 311
- Data Plan – 312
- Shared Services – 321
- Data Plan Balance – 323
- Verification of SIM Registration/ NIN – SIM Linkage – 996
- Porting Services (MNP) – 2442
Some USSD codes remain unchanged, such as:
- DND: 2442
- NIN Verification and NIN-SIM Linkage: *996#
The implementation of the new USSD codes started on May 18, 2023 and will be completed by May 17, 2023. During this period, both the old and new codes will work concurrently, after which the old codes will stop working.
This means that any telecom operator that fails to migrate to the new USSD codes will not be able to serve its customers. Therefore, it is advisable for all mobile phone users in Nigeria to familiarize themselves with the new USSD codes and start using them as soon as possible.
The NCC said that the harmonization of USSD codes is part of its regulatory modernization initiative to ensure that Nigeria’s telecom sector meets up with current global realities and standards. The NCC also urged all stakeholders to cooperate and support the implementation process for the benefit of all Nigeria
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