By Martin Ekpeke
Starting today, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, mobile subscribers in Nigeria will begin paying ₦6.98 per 120 seconds for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services. This shift to an “End-User Billing” (EUB) model means charges will now be deducted directly from a user’s airtime balance, rather than from banks.
The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) announced this change, noting it’s a significant step in Nigeria’s digital financial evolution. This new billing system is implemented in line with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC)’s Determination of USSD Pricing and Services, developed in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Previously, banks were billed by telecom operators for USSD services, leading to disputes over unpaid charges and service interruptions. The new EUB model aims to address these issues by allowing mobile network operators to charge customers directly for their USSD sessions.
Before any deduction, customers will receive a prompt to opt-in and approve the charge. Billing will only occur for successful sessions, preventing double billing. ALTON emphasizes that this change does not impact the availability or functionality of USSD banking services; customers can continue to use their bank’s USSD codes as usual, provided they have sufficient airtime.
For support, ALTON advises users to contact their mobile network operator for access issues (e.g., inability to dial USSD codes) and their bank’s customer service for transaction-related issues (e.g., failed transfers). Both banks and mobile network operators are required to provide responsive support.
Alternative digital banking channels like mobile apps, internet banking, and ATMs remain fully operational for customer convenience. ALTON reiterates its commitment to ensuring a seamless and beneficial transition for all stakeholders, especially end-users, promoting transparency, efficiency, and consumer protection in Nigeria’s telecommunications and digital finance sectors.