Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in the country have commenced processes for the implementation of harmonized uniform shortcodes for telecommunication services in line with the regulatory initiative of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) aimed at ensuring uniformity across all networks.
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), which gave this hint in a statement on Tuesday, indicated that the harmonization of the shortcodes was aimed at ensuring a streamlined process for common shortcodes across the telecom sector for the benefits of subscribers.
In addition, the operators’ umbrella body stated the move would, through the memorization of single codes for subscribers for services across the networks, also provide a cohesive regulatory framework that is consistent with global industry best practices.
The association stated: “Following the directive from the 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 AL”
According to the group, the migration which will completed by 17th May this year will allow the old and new common codes to run concurrently after which the old codes will cease to operate.
It listed the proposed harmonized shortcodes as Call Centre/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; Shared Services – 321; Data Plan Balance -323; Verification of SIM Registration/NIN-SIM Linkage – 996; and Porting Services (MNP) – 2442.
Until the latest regulatory directive, the telecom operators have different codes for checking balance, recharging, borrowing credit, data plan and other services.
With most Nigerian subscribers having more than one GSM number, remembering the different shortcodes by them, in most cases, had always been problematic.
Analysts believe that the harmonization of the shortcodes will ease the problem and enable subscribers to memorize some of the codes they usually use, especially the recharge, borrowing and balance check shortcodes.
