USSD Stands At ₦6.98 Per 120 Seconds As End-user Billing Begins

The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has officially announced the commencement of the End-User Billing (EUB) model for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services, effective Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

Under the new framework, customers will now be charged ₦6.98 per 120 seconds for USSD sessions, with fees deducted directly from their airtime balance.

The move, backed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), marks a shift in how digital financial transactions via USSD are billed.

Previously, banks were billed by telecom operators for these services, leading to prolonged disputes over unpaid charges, frequent service disruptions, and widespread confusion among users.

ALTON’s chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, in a public statement, made available to LEADERSHIP, on Wednesday, said the transition to EUB was a critical milestone in building a more transparent, sustainable, and user-focused digital financial ecosystem.

Under the EUB model, telcos will now charge customers directly for each USSD session. Charges will only apply after a user opts in and approves the deduction.

ALTON emphasised that billing will only occur for successful sessions, and double billing is explicitly ruled out.

“This change ensures clarity and eliminates disputes between banks and telecom operators while safeguarding the interests of end users,” the association noted.

In order to support a seamless transition, only banks that meet regulatory and operational conditions, including customer notification of the change, are permitted to migrate to this new billing structure.

However, users will continue to access USSD banking services via their banks’ existing codes, as long as they have sufficient airtime to cover the charges.

For access issues, ALTON advises customers, who are unable to dial USSD codes, to contact their mobile network operator.

For transaction-related issues like failed transfers or service errors, the association urged customers to contact their bank’s customer service.

Both banks and mobile network operators are required to provide responsive support and ensure that customers can access and use USSD services without disruption.

Importantly, the association assured Nigerians that USSD banking services remain fully operational and unaffected in functionality, adding that for users who prefer alternative digital platforms, mobile apps, internet banking, and ATMs remain available and unaffected by the new billing policy.

By implementing this model, regulators and operators aim to ensure continued availability of USSD as a vital tool for financial inclusion, especially for Nigeria’s unbanked and underbanked population.

ALTON therefore reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the NCC, CBN, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth, equitable, and transparent rollout of the new policy.

“This reform is in line with our dedication to promoting operational efficiency, consumer protection, and long-term stability in Nigeria’s telecom and financial services landscape,” ALTON added.