Telcos Begin N6.98 Airtime Deduction For USSD Services Today
Telecommunication subscribers in Nigeria are now to pay N6.98 per 120 seconds for USSD sessions, as mobile network operators begin direct airtime deductions today, Wednesday, 18 June 2025.
This follows a joint announcement by the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), signed by its chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, and publicity secretary, Damian Udeh.
The statement noted that the new billing system aligns with the Nigerian Communications Commission’s 2025 determination on USSD pricing and services, developed with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other stakeholders.
“USSD services play a vital role in expanding access to financial services, particularly for unbanked and underbanked populations.
“However, the previous corporate billing model, where banks were billed by telecom operators, led to prolonged disputes over unpaid charges, service interruptions and uncertainty for customers,” ALTON said.
“To address these challenges, the NCC’s 2025 determination introduced the End-User Billing (EUB) model, which allows mobile network operators to charge customers directly for USSD sessions.”
Under the new arrangement, charges will be deducted from the subscriber’s airtime balance at N6.98 per 120 seconds.
Customers will be prompted to opt in and approve the charge before any deduction is made. Only successful sessions will attract billing.
ALTON assured subscribers that the change would not affect the availability or functionality of USSD banking services. Customers can continue to use their bank’s USSD codes, provided they have sufficient airtime.
“To achieve the implementation of the EUB model, the CBN and NCC have stipulated that only banks that meet certain regulatory and operational conditions are permitted to migrate,” it added.
It advised customers to contact their mobile network operators for access-related issues and banks for transaction complaints.
“To ensure a smooth transition, we urge subscribers to follow support guidelines. Alternative digital banking channels such as mobile apps, internet banking, and ATMs remain fully operational,” ALTON said.
The development comes after a long-standing dispute between banks and telecom operators over a USSD debt of N250 billion.
In December 2024, the CBN and NCC directed mobile network operators and deposit money banks to resolve the debt.
Following threats by telcos to suspend services, the NCC in January warned of possible USSD disconnection and vowed to name the debtor banks.
On 15 January, the regulator ordered telcos to disconnect USSD codes assigned to nine banks by 27 January.
By 28 February, MTN Nigeria said it had received N32 billion out of a total N72 billion owed by banks as part payment for the USSD debt.
ALTON reiterated its commitment to working closely with the NCC, CBN, banks, and other stakeholders to ensure a seamless and fair transition for all parties, especially the end-users.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
