NCC orders all mobile network providers to have implemented harmonized shortcodes by May 17.

Mobile network operators (MNOs) in Nigeria have been instructed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to start adopting permitted harmonized shortcodes for the usage of specific services to telecom users in Nigeria.

This directive is intended to maintain the consumer-service focus of telecoms regulation and ultimately improve consumer quality of experience (QoE). The Commission has set a deadline for all mobile networks to fully switch from using different shortcodes to harmonized codes.

The network operators in Nigeria, under the umbrella of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), have announced the commencement of harmonized short codes across all networks.

What does the harmonization of the shortcodes mean?

This implies that the code for checking airtime balance is the same across all mobile networks for the same function, regardless of the network a customer uses. Customers can now use the same phone numbers to access services across mobile networks.

The Chairman of ALTON, Gbenga Adebayo said, “Following the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) directive, the Association informed the general public “that the network operators have begun implementing the shortcodes, working closely with the NCC.“

Amid these directives, it is worthy of note that until May 17, 2023, when all networks are expected to have fully implemented the new codes, the old and new harmonized shortcodes remain functional allowing telecom users to become familiar with the new codes for various services.

How the harmonized shortcodes proposed by NCC can benefit Nigerian mobile network users 

Regardless of the network operator, these shortcodes would offer Nigerians access to a single system to handle their daily mobile demands and services.
Another benefit of the shortcodes is that Nigerians will receive customer care that is tailored to their needs.
Customers may contact network providers efficiently thanks to the shortcodes for all networks, which also create permanent records that are convenient to preserve and access at any time.