The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has announced that the long-anticipated migration to the End-User Billing (EUB) model for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services will officially commence on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.
According to a statement signed by Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON Chairman, and Damian Udeh, Publicity Secretary, this shift marks a new chapter in Nigeria’s digital financial framework and aligns with the 2025 Determination of USSD Pricing and Services issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The move was also developed in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other key industry players.
Okay.ng reports that the new billing model, which allows telecom operators to charge customers directly for USSD sessions, replaces the previous system where banks bore the cost—a model that had led to prolonged disputes over unpaid charges, service interruptions, and general customer dissatisfaction.
Under the EUB model, each USSD session will cost ₦6.98 per 120 seconds, and charges will be deducted directly from the customer’s airtime balance, not their bank account. To proceed with a USSD transaction, users will first be prompted to opt-in and approve the charge. Only successful sessions will incur charges, and ALTON assures that double billing will not occur.
“This model ensures transparency, prevents service disruptions, and empowers users to make informed decisions about their digital banking engagements,” the statement noted.
Key Implementation Guidelines:
- Access issues (e.g., inability to dial USSD codes) should be reported to the mobile network operator.
- Transaction-related issues (e.g., failed transfers or errors) should be addressed with the bank’s customer service.
- Customers must have sufficient airtime to use USSD banking services.
ALTON clarified that banks eligible for migration must first meet regulatory and operational criteria, including proper advance communication to customers about the billing update.
The association also reaffirmed that this transition does not affect the functionality of existing USSD banking services, and alternative digital banking platforms like mobile apps, internet banking, and ATMs remain fully operational.
In closing, ALTON stated:
“We remain dedicated to promoting transparency, operational efficiency, and consumer protection across Nigeria’s telecommunications and digital finance sectors.”
