Finally, Nigeria has started the implementation of uniform short codes for telecom operators and banks. This means that all four operators – MTN, Airtel, Globacom and 9mobile – will use the same short codes for basic services like airtime balance check, airtime credit recharge, e.t.c.
This implementation will also affect banks’ USSD codes and all banks will be forced to use the same short codes for financial services.
The plan to harmonise all short codes and USSD in use in Nigerian telecommunication industry was unveiled in 2017 and its objective, in line with global best practices, is to enable easy memorisation amongst other merits.
According to Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), in a statement on Tuesday, the commencement of the short code harmonization was in accordance with the Nigerian Communications Commission’s regulatory modernization initiative (NCC).
“Following the directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Association hereby informs the general public that the network operators have begun implementing the shortcodes, working closely with the NCC.”
“The commission has provided adequate time for subscribers to get used to this new development. We are confident this will enhance customer experience across networks,” he said.
The proposed harmonised shortcodes are:
- 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
The ALTON Chairman said that the old and new codes will run concurrently till the 17th of May, 2023, after which the old codes would cease to operate.
