The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has given approval for unified USSD codes, known as harmonized shortcodes (HSC), to be implemented across all mobile networks in Nigeria.
Exactly, with the implementation of unified USSD codes, all mobile network services will utilize the same customer care number, codes for checking data balances, credit recharge, and other services, streamlining the user experience across different networks in Nigeria.
The code 996 is now designated for the verification of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration/NIN-SIM linkage.
The Code 2442 is retained for managing complaints related to Do-Not-Disturb (DND) unsolicited messaging.
The common Code 3232, is also retained for porting services, otherwise called Mobile Number Portability.
The old and new harmonised short codes will run concurrently up till May 17 2023, when all networks are expected to have fully migrated to full implementation of the new codes.
Unified USSD codes for all mobile networks in Nigeria:
⏺️ Call Centre: 300
⏺️ Borrow Services: *303#
⏺️ Stop Service: *305#
⏺️ Check Balance: *310#
⏺️ Credit Recharge: *311#
⏺️ Data Plan: *312#
⏺️ Data plan balance: *323#
⏺️ Share Services: *321#
⏺️ DND: 2442
⏺️ Porting services: 3232
⏺️ NIN Verification and NIN-SIM Linkage: *996#