The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed all banks to stop taking USSD charges from customer bank accounts. Starting June 3, 2025, the charges are now deducted from users’ mobile airtime.
The policy is part of the End-User Billing (EUB) model introduced by the NCC. It shifts USSD payment responsibility to mobile network operators.
The United Bank for Africa (UBA) notified its customers by email about the change. Other banks are also expected to follow the same process.
“In line with the directive of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), please be informed that effective June 3, 2025, charges for USSD banking services will no longer be deducted from your bank account,” UBA wrote.
“Going forward, these charges will be deducted directly from your mobile airtime balance in accordance with the NCC’s End-User Billing (EUB) model.”
Each USSD session now costs ₦6.98 for every 120 seconds. The charge applies only after the user agrees to continue with the transaction. Customers will receive a consent message at the start of each session. If they decline, no charge will be made, and the session will end.
Customers Can Choose Other Digital Platforms
UBA and other banks say customers may stop using the USSD platform if they do not agree with the new arrangement. Internet banking, mobile apps, and bank branches remain open for regular transactions.
This gives users more freedom to manage how they bank digitally. The NCC believes this move offers better transparency and will reduce complaints.
This change follows years of disagreement between banks and telecom operators over USSD debts. In December 2024, the NCC and the Central Bank of Nigeria asked banks and telecom companies to settle ₦250 billion in unpaid fees.
Early in 2025, telecom providers threatened to stop USSD services. The NCC reacted in January by ordering the disconnection of USSD codes belonging to nine commercial banks.
MTN later confirmed in February that it had received ₦32 billion out of the ₦72 billion owed by the banks.
By making network providers charge users directly, the NCC hopes to prevent more disputes. The commission also aims to protect customer interests while improving digital banking operations across Nigeria.
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