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The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has officially announced the commencement of the End-User Billing (EUB) model for USSD services, effective today, Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
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Under this new framework, mobile subscribers will now be charged ₦6.98 per 120-second USSD session, with airtime deductions replacing previous bank-billed charges. This marks a significant shift in how Nigerians access digital banking services via USSD codes.
The change, announced in a joint statement by ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, and Publicity Secretary, Damian Udeh, follows the 2025 Determination of USSD Pricing and Services issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Why the USSD Billing Model Has Changed
Previously, telecom operators billed banks directly for USSD access, but persistent disputes over unpaid charges disrupted services and created uncertainty for users. The End-User Billing model resolves this by shifting the cost to mobile users, allowing telcos to charge customers directly via airtime.
“This move enhances transparency and ensures a sustainable framework for delivering USSD financial services,” said ALTON.
The new model supports Nigeria’s drive for financial inclusion, especially for unbanked and underbanked populations who rely on USSD codes for mobile banking and transactions.
What Subscribers Need to Know
- New Charge: ₦6.98 will be deducted from your airtime for every 120-second USSD session.
- Opt-in Required: You’ll receive a prompt to approve the charge before any airtime deduction is made.
- No Bank Account Debits: Charges will not be taken from your bank account—only from airtime.
- No Double Billing: Charges apply only for successful sessions, and double billing is prohibited.
- Continued Access: USSD banking remains fully available using your usual bank codes—just ensure you have sufficient airtime.
Who to Contact for Support
To ensure a smooth user experience, ALTON has issued the following support guidance:
- For USSD access issues (e.g., dialing errors): Contact your mobile network provider.
- For transaction-related issues (e.g., failed transfers): Contact your bank’s customer support.
Both telecoms and financial institutions are mandated to provide responsive customer service throughout the transition.
Alternative Channels Remain Available
Customers can still access banking services via other digital platforms such as:
- Mobile banking apps
- Internet banking portals
- Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)
Industry Collaboration for a Seamless Transition
ALTON reaffirmed its commitment to work closely with the NCC, CBN, and all stakeholders to ensure the transition is equitable, efficient, and user-focused.
“We are committed to transparency, consumer protection, and operational efficiency in Nigeria’s telecom and digital finance sectors,” ALTON said.
Ending uncertainty over USSD disputes
The NCC hopes the new system will address disputes over unpaid charges that have created uncertainty in the sector. Earlier this year, telecom regulator directed mobile network operators to disconnect the USSD codes of nine financial institutions over unpaid debts. It underscored the persistent financial dispute between telecommunications companies and Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), despite previous interventions by the CBN.
As Nigeria deepens its digital economy, this USSD billing shift represents a vital step toward clarity, accountability, and infrastructure sustainability. All subscribers are encouraged to stay informed, maintain airtime balances, and reach out to service providers with any challenges.
