By January 27, millions of Nigerians could face disrupted banking as nine banks, including UBA, Zenith, and Fidelity, risk losing USSD access. This will also affect other banks.
The Nigerian Communications Commission has ordered telcos to disconnect their services over an unpaid ₦160 billion debt.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced plans to disconnect nine banks access to their USSD platforms starting Monday, January 27, 2025.
This action follows the banks’ failure to pay ₦160 billion in debts owed to telecommunications companies since 2019.
Clarify Impact
To clarify the impact, the NCC listed the affected banks and their USSD codes: Fidelity Bank Plc (770), First City Monument Bank (329), Jaiz Bank Plc (773), Polaris Bank Limited (833), Sterling Bank Limited (822), United Bank for Africa Plc (919), Unity Bank Plc (7799), Wema Bank Plc (945), and Zenith Bank Plc (966).
In an effort to inform customers, the NCC warned that they “may be unable to access the USSD platform of the affected financial institutions from January 27, 2025″.
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This proactive step aims to minimise surprises for millions of Nigerians who rely on USSD for essential banking services.
Earlier this year, telecommunications companies took similar action when they threatened to disconnect 18 banks over a ₦200-billion debt.
Although nine banks managed to pay their dues, the remaining nine still owe a reduced sum of ₦160 billion.
As the deadline approaches, tension between banks and telcos continues to grow.
However, this situation highlights the urgent need for both parties to resolve their disagreements to avoid disrupting services for customers.
For now, all eyes are on the banks to settle their debts and prevent widespread inconvenience.
Meanwhile, telecom operators stand ready to enforce the NCC’s directive if payments are not made.
