NCC Mandates Implementation of New Harmonized Short Codes for MNOs
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a directive to all mobile network operators (MNOs) in the country to commence the implementation of the approved harmonized short codes (HSCs) in order to provide specific services to telecom customers. The new policy is aimed at improving the quality of service delivery to telecom customers and is in line with the commission's consumer-centric approach to telecom regulation.
The new set of codes will signal the end of the viability of the old short codes and will enable customers of MNOs such as MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, and 9mobile to use uniform short codes across all networks. The NCC has set a deadline of May 17th, 2023 for the transition to the new set of codes.
The harmonized short codes include 300, which will be used as the harmonized code for call center/help desk on all mobile networks, 301 for voice mail deposit, 302 for voice mail retrieval, 303 for borrow services, 305 for stop service, 310 for check balance, and 311 for credit recharge.
In addition, the common code for data plan across networks is now 312, 321 is for share services, while 323 is for data plan balance. The code, 2442, is retained for do-not-disturb (DND) unsolicited messaging complaint management, while 3232, is retained for porting services, also called mobile number portability.
According to Reuben Muoka, NCC’s director of public affairs, the implementation of the harmonized short codes will improve customer experience and make it easier for them to access specific services from their respective mobile network operators. He added that the NCC will continue to monitor the implementation of the new policy to ensure compliance by all MNOs in the country.
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