The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has commenced full migration to the End-User Billing (EUB) model for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services, effective Wednesday, June 18, 2025, reports ITREALMS.
USSD services are critical for driving financial inclusion in Nigeria, especially for the unbanked and underbanked. However, the previous corporate billing model, where banks were charged by telecom operators, led to protracted disputes over unpaid fees, service disruptions, and customer uncertainty.
"To rectify these challenges, the NCC's 2025 Determination, developed in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other key stakeholders, introduced the End-User Billing model," said Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON, stressing "This allows mobile network operators to directly charge customers for USSD sessions, ensuring a more stable and equitable payment system."
Under the new EUB model, USSD charges will be deducted directly from the customer's airtime balance, not their bank account. Each USSD session will now cost ₦6.98 per 120 seconds.
A press statement available to ITREALMS and jointly signed by ALTON chairman and publicity secretary, Sir Damian Udeh, pointed out that to ensure transparency and customer awareness, the CBN and NCC have stipulated strict conditions for banks permitted to migrate.
This, they explained, includes prior notification to customers about the billing change. Customers will also receive a prompt to opt-in and approve the charge before any deduction is made, eliminating the risk of unexpected costs. ALTON confirms that billing will only occur for successful sessions, preventing double charges.
This change, ALTON emphasised does not impact the availability or functionality of USSD banking services, insisting that customers could continue to use their bank's USSD codes as usual, provided they have sufficient airtime.
To ensure a smooth transition, ALTON advises customers on the following support guidelines:
They further advised that for access issues, (e.g., inability to dial USSD codes), contact your mobile network operator; For transaction-related issues (e.g., failed transfers or service errors), contact your bank's customer service.
Stressing that both banks and mobile network operators are mandated to provide responsive support to ensure uninterrupted access to USSD services.
Customers are reminded that alternative digital banking channels, such as mobile apps, internet banking, and ATMs, remain fully operational and available for their convenience.
ALTON reiterated commitment to collaborating with the NCC, CBN, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure this transition is seamless, equitable, and beneficial for all parties, particularly the end-users.
The association remains dedicated to promoting transparency, operational efficiency, and robust consumer protection across Nigeria's telecommunications and digital finance sectors.
Remmy Nweke/DoP
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