Unified USSD Codes Introduced by NCC

Last Updated: October 2025
Disclaimer: nigeriaussdcodes.com is an independent educational website. We are not affiliated with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) or any mobile operator. All information is verified from official NCC and telecom releases.

Why the NCC Changed All USSD Codes

In early 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) launched a national harmonization initiative to make all major telecom short codes uniform.

Before this change:

• Each network (MTN, GLO, Airtel, 9mobile) used its own random numbers.

• Checking airtime on MTN might be *556#, while GLO used *124#.

• Customers constantly confused codes when switching SIMs.

The NCC’s harmonization solved that — now one short code works on every network.

By 2025 this system is fully adopted nationwide and forms the basis of all current telecom USSD operations.

The Purpose of the Harmonized Code System

The change was introduced to:

• Simplify user experience. One code across all networks.

• Improve transparency. Easier for consumers to verify information.

• Support financial inclusion. Banks, fintechs, and telcos now share a consistent USSD structure.

• Enable better regulation. NCC can monitor and audit uniform code performance.

The Complete Unified USSD Code Table

These codes are officially recognized by NCC and now replace all older operator-specific codes.

Timeline — From Confusion to Clarity

Before 2023:

• MTN → *556#, GLO → *124#, Airtel → *123#, 9mobile → *232# (for balance).

• Users needed to memorize multiple codes.

2023:

• NCC issued directive No. NCC/HCC/USSD/2023.

• All networks given 6 months to migrate.

2024:

• Enforcement stage: older codes still worked but displayed warning messages.

2025:

• Full adoption. Using an old code now redirects automatically to the new one.

Benefits to Nigerian Subscribers

• Simplicity: no more learning dozens of codes.

• Efficiency: same menu layout on every network.

• Reduced fraud: fake promo codes easily spotted.

• Speed: USSD gateways optimized under unified system.

• Accessibility: rural users now get consistent experience regardless of SIM.

Impact on Telecom Operators

Though harmonization helped users, telcos had to:

• Upgrade legacy USSD servers.

• Redesign menus to match NCC template.

• Migrate VAS partners to new shortcode architecture.

• Communicate updates via SMS & media.

Today, all networks comply and integrate new APIs for banking and fintech services.

Comparing Pre-Harmonization vs Post-Harmonization Codes

This table highlights how much simpler the new system is for everyone.

How to Use the Unified Codes (Step-by-Step)

Example 1 – Checking Airtime:

• Dial *310# → balance shows instantly.

Example 2 – Buying Data:

• Dial *312# → choose plan → confirm.

Example 3 – Stopping Deductions:

• Dial *305# → “View Active Services” → “Unsubscribe All.”

Common Issues & Quick Fixes

Why NCC Added *996# for NIN Linking

Linking NIN to SIM is mandatory. 996# was created so every user — regardless of network — can submit or check their NIN without data or visiting a service centre.
It connects directly to NIMC’s API, not to each operator’s portal.

This innovation made Nigeria one of the few African countries with a nationwide identity-USSD bridge.

How Harmonization Helps Fintech & Banks

Because short codes are now the same, banks and fintechs can:

• Integrate multiple operators faster.

• Reduce user confusion in mobile banking flows.

• Build unified menus for wallet transfers and bill payments.

• Roll out nationwide products without rewriting network logic.

Example: a customer using 310# on any SIM can now check balance within integrated fintech menus.

Security & Privacy Benefits

The harmonized USSD ecosystem improves safety:

• Fewer fake codes circulated by scammers.

• Consistent NCC-audited gateway reduces data leakage.

• Easier consumer education about fraud awareness.

Remember: NCC will never ask you to share PINs, BVN, or NIN via phone calls or links.

Public Awareness & Transition Challenges

Initially, many Nigerians didn’t know about the new codes.
Operators spent months sending SMS broadcasts, radio jingles, and push notifications to educate users.
Today, awareness exceeds 90 %, according to NCC’s 2025 report.

Real-Life Example

Blessing from Benin City had both GLO and Airtel SIMs.
Before harmonization, she used *124# and *123# to check balances — often mixing them up.
After 2023, she only needs *310# for both — saving time and avoiding errors.

The Future of Unified USSD in Nigeria

Between 2025 – 2027 expect:

• Bi-lingual menus (Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa).

• Integration with eNaira wallets.

• AI-driven fraud alerts that detect abnormal transactions.

• Offline payment expansion for public transport and rural markets.

Quick Reference Summary

Conclusion

The NCC’s harmonized USSD project has transformed how Nigerians interact with telecom services.
No more guessing codes, no more confusion — one set of simple numbers now works everywhere.

So next time someone asks, “What’s the code for data balance on MTN or Airtel?”
The answer is the same: *323# — that’s the power of harmonization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does “harmonized USSD code” mean in Nigeria?

It means that all mobile networks — MTN, GLO, Airtel, and 9mobile — now use the same short codes for common services.
For example, *310# checks airtime balance on every network, and *312# buys data.
This change, introduced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), ensures simplicity and uniformity for all users nationwide.

When did the new unified codes officially start working?

The NCC directive was announced in March 2023.
Networks were given six months to migrate.
By early 2024, most old codes began redirecting users automatically.
As of 2025, all major networks are fully compliant — only the new codes now work.

Why did NCC replace the old USSD codes?

Because every operator used different numbers, and customers found them confusing.
The new system:

• Makes telecom services easier to use.

• Reduces fake or fraudulent short codes.

• Enables banks, fintechs, and telcos to integrate faster.
  It’s part of NCC’s consumer-protection and digital-inclusion program.

Do I need to register or activate anything before using the new codes?

No activation is required.
Just dial the new code directly from the SIM registered in your name, and it works automatically.
However, some operations (like borrowing airtime) may still require eligibility based on your recharge history.

What happens if I dial an old USSD code like *556# or *123#?

You’ll either:

1. See a message redirecting you to the new code, or

2. Get an “Invalid MMI” or “Code no longer in use” error.

All old codes were phased out between 2024 and 2025.
Always use the harmonized codes listed on nigeriaussdcodes.com for the latest updates.

Are there any charges for using USSD codes?

Most codes — checking balance, buying data, linking NIN — are free of charge.
However, some actions (like borrowing airtime or data) may include small service fees deducted on your next recharge.
Always read on-screen prompts before confirming any transaction.

Can USSD work without network signal or airtime credit?

USSD requires basic network signal, but no data connection.
Some phones may need at least ₦1–₦2 airtime balance for certain transactions, especially on older devices.
It works perfectly in 2 G and 3 G coverage areas.

Is USSD safe to use?

Yes — it’s one of the most secure offline systems for telecom services.
Your requests go directly through your network’s encrypted channel, and no information passes through third-party apps.
Just remember never to share your PIN or confirmation codes with anyone.

How can I confirm if my NIN is successfully linked using *996#?

After dialing *996#, select “Check NIN Status.”
You’ll receive an on-screen message and sometimes an SMS stating whether your NIN is linked or still pending.
If pending, wait a few hours or visit the operator’s portal to complete verification.

What if *305# doesn’t stop my unwanted deductions?

If deductions continue after unsubscribing, redial *305# a second time or wait one hour and retry.
If the issue persists, contact *Customer Care via 300# or the operator’s help desk — sometimes it takes up to 24 hours to fully clear cached subscriptions.