By Kingsley I. Ilechukwu, Bureau Chief, South West & Angeline Mgbele, Bureau Chief, North
Industry advocacy body, the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), has made public the commencement of harmonised shortcodes across all networks pursuant to a regulatory modernisation initiative by industry regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
The cheery news is contained in a press statement inked by ALTON Chairman Engr. Gbenga Adebayo and Head of Operations, Gbolahan Awonuga, respectively.
Cyber Era NG understands that the harmonisation of shortcodes is aimed at implementing a streamlined process for common shortcodes across the industry, by making life easier for Nigerians through the memorisation of single codes, for various services across all networks as well as providing a cohesive regulatory framework that is consistent with global best practices.
Following the directive from NCC, the Association hereby inform the general public that “The Network Operators have begun implementing the shortcodes, working closely with the NCC. The Commission has provided adequate time for subscribers to get used to this new development. We are confident this will enhance customer experience across networks,” stated ALTON.
During migration (which is to be concluded by May 17,2023 old and new common codes will run concurrently, after which the old codes will cease to operate.
The proposed harmonised shortcodes are:
● Call Center/Help Desk – 300
● Voice Mail Deposit – 301
● Voice Mail Retrieval -302
● Borrow Services – 303
● STOP Services – 304
● Check Balance – 310
● Credit Recharge – 311
● Data Plan – 312
● Share Services – 321
● Data Plan Balance – 323
● Verification of SIM Registration/ NIN – SIM Linkage – 996
● Porting Services (MNP) – 2442
