Starting June 18, 2025, Nigerians using USSD codes for mobile banking and other digital transactions will now pay ₦6.98 for every 120 seconds of usage, following the rollout of a new End-User Billing (EUB) model. The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) announced the implementation of this policy, which shifts the billing responsibility from banks to the end users. Under the new system, the charges will be directly deducted from users’ airtime once they consent to the billing.
This change was jointly approved by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to address long-standing disputes between telecom operators and financial institutions over unpaid USSD service fees. In the past, unresolved billing disagreements led to service interruptions and confusion for millions of users relying on USSD for banking.
According to ALTON chairman Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, the policy marks a major step towards a more transparent and user-focused digital transaction system. He noted that users will only be billed for successful USSD sessions, with strict measures in place to prevent double billing or unauthorized deductions. Banks must also notify their customers before switching to the new billing structure.
While the billing model has changed, the functionality of USSD banking services remains the same. Users can continue to access services using their bank’s designated codes, provided they have enough airtime. ALTON emphasized that only banks compliant with regulatory requirements can participate in this new billing arrangement.
ALTON also urged users experiencing issues to contact their mobile network provider for access problems and their bank for transaction-related concerns. The association reassured the public that USSD services remain fully operational and that alternative platforms such as banking apps and ATMs remain unaffected. The policy aims to enhance financial inclusion by ensuring stable access to digital services for Nigeria’s underserved populations.
Source: Leadership