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What are the short codes for NCC?
Among all the challenges experienced in the telecommunication industry including high tariffs, the Nigerian Communication Commission NCC could only consider unifying the USSD codes from different mobile networks to help with issues of users trying to memorize all the mobile network USSD codes and their functions.
In this guide, we will unveil to you, the latest shortcodes for all the telecommunication operators in Nigeria. But before we proceed, let’s take a look at the meaning of USSD, and shortcodes.
What is USSD?
USSD stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data. It is a technology used by mobile network operators to provide interactive communication sessions between users and various applications or services. USSD is commonly referred to as “Quick Codes” or “Feature Codes” and is typically accessed by dialing a specific shortcode or a combination of asterisks (*) and numbers (e.g., *123#).
USSD sessions are real-time and menu-driven, allowing users to interact with a service or application by selecting options from a series of menus presented on their mobile device’s screen. Unlike SMS (Short Message Service), USSD sessions do not require a data connection or internet access, making them accessible to all mobile phone users.
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These command prompt codes can be used for a wide range of services, including balance inquiries, mobile banking, prepaid top-ups, mobile payments, service activations, customer support, and more. It provides a quick and convenient way for users to access information or perform actions directly from their mobile devices, without the need for additional apps or internet connectivity.
They are specific combinations of digits that trigger predefined actions or services when dialed. These codes are assigned by mobile network operators and can vary between different operators and countries. Users can access USSD services by dialing the corresponding USSD code on their mobile devices and following the prompts provided on the screen.
USSD technology has gained popularity due to its simplicity, accessibility, and real-time interactivity, making it a widely used communication method for accessing mobile services and applications.
What is a shortcode?
Shortcodes are abbreviated telephone numbers used primarily for value-added services, information services, and other special functions provided by telecom operators. These are typically three, four, or five-digit numbers that are easier to remember and dial than regular telephone numbers. Shortcodes are used to access various services or perform specific actions quickly by dialing a specific sequence of digits.
Telecom operators assign and manage shortcodes for their network, and each shortcode is associated with a specific service or function. These services can include accessing customer support, checking account balance, subscribing to data plans, activating value-added services, and more.
Shortcodes are commonly used for interactive voice response (IVR) systems, mobile banking, mobile payments, mobile marketing campaigns, and other similar applications. They provide a convenient and efficient way for users to access specific services or perform actions without the need to remember lengthy telephone numbers or navigate through complex menus.
New Unified USSD codes for every network
Whether you are looking for Airtel new code, MTN new code to check balance, Globacom unified codes, 9mobile, etc, you will find the table below very helpful. Keep visiting this post until you memorize them and do not forget to share this post with your friends and well wishes.
| Service | Unified USSD Codes |
|---|---|
| Call Centers | 300 |
| Borrow Services | *303# |
| Stop Service | *305# |
| Check Balance | *310# |
| Credit Recharge | *311# |
| Data Plan | *312# |
| Data Plan Balance | *323# |
| Share Services | *321# |
| SIM verification, registration and linkage | *996# |
Since you’ve heard us mention NCC, as the body behind the new USSD codes for Nigerians, it is important to have a better understanding of the body responsible and its key functions.
What is the meaning of NCC?
NCC stands for the Nigerian Communications Commission. It is the regulatory authority for the telecommunications industry in Nigeria. The NCC is responsible for the supervision, regulation, and development of the telecommunications sector in the country.
Established in 1992, the NCC operates under the Nigerian Communications Act (2003) and is mandated to ensure fair competition, protect consumer rights, promote universal access to telecommunications services, and oversee the management of scarce resources such as frequency spectrum and numbering resources.
The key functions of the NCC include:
- Licensing and Regulation: The NCC issues licenses to telecommunications operators, sets regulatory guidelines and standards, and enforces compliance with regulatory frameworks.
- Spectrum Management: The NCC manages the allocation and utilization of frequency spectrum, ensuring its efficient use by operators and preventing interference between different services.
- Consumer Protection: The NCC protects the rights and interests of consumers, ensuring that telecommunications services are of good quality, affordable, and accessible to all Nigerians.
- Universal Access: The NCC promotes the availability of telecommunications services in underserved and unserved areas, aiming for universal access to communication services across the country.
- Competition Promotion: The NCC fosters a competitive telecommunications market, preventing anti-competitive practices and ensuring a level playing field for operators.
- Policy Development: The NCC develops policies and frameworks to guide the growth and development of the telecommunications sector in line with national development objectives.
The NCC plays a crucial role in shaping the telecommunications landscape in Nigeria, promoting innovation, investment, and growth in the industry while safeguarding the interests of consumers and ensuring fair competition among operators.
Conclusion
Now that we have shown you a list of the harmonized USSD codes in Nigeria and the services they cover, we hope this post helps you know the new way to check your data balance, recharge airtime, call customer care, check airtime account balance, etc.
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