In a groundbreaking move, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has mandated all mobile network operators (MNOs) to implement approved harmonized shortcodes (HSC) for certain telecom services to Nigerian consumers.
“The NCC has set a deadline of May 17, 2023, for all mobile networks to fully migrate from previously diverse shortcodes to harmonized codes.”
This directive, according to a statement from the NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, aligns with the NCC’s consumer-centric approach to telecoms regulation.
Harmonized shortcodes aim to establish uniformity across networks, making it simpler for Nigerians to remember single codes for various services, irrespective of the mobile networks they use. This standardization is designed to enhance the consumer quality of experience.
New Harmonized Shortcodes: What You Need to Know
The NCC has approved 13 common shortcodes under the new harmonized shortcodes regime. These include:
Call Centre/Help Desk: 300
Voice Mail Deposit: 301
Voice Mail Retrieval: 302
Borrow Services: 303
STOP Service: 305
Check Balance: 310
Credit Recharge: 311
Data Plan: 312
Share Services: 321
Data Plan Balance: 323
NIN-SIM Linkage: 996
Do-Not-Disturb (DND): 2442
Porting Services (Mobile Number Portability): 3232
With these new codes, checking airtime balance and performing other activities will now be the same across all mobile networks. This change means that telecom customers using the country’s over 226 million active mobile lines can access services across networks with the same codes.
“The old and new harmonized shortcodes will run concurrently up until May 17, 2023, when all networks are expected to have fully migrated to the full implementation of the new codes.”
Familiarizing Yourself with the New Codes
The period between now and May 17, 2023, is provided by the NCC to allow telecom consumers to familiarize themselves with the new codes for various services.
This initiative, in line with NCC’s regulatory modernization program, provides an opportunity for licensees in the value-added services (VAS) segment of the telecoms sector to use freed-up/old codes for other services. It aims to establish a cohesive regulatory framework in keeping with world-class practices.
For more information about the NCC and its initiatives, you can visit their official website.
Stay tuned for more updates on this and other developments in the Nigerian telecom sector on MandyNews.com.
This article is for informational purposes only. Please ensure you’re following the latest guidelines and codes provided by your network service provider.
