NCC throws more light on the End User Billing (EUB) policy for USSD banking in Nigeria

NCC throws more light on the End User Billing (EUB) policy for USSD banking in Nigeria

The End User Billing (EUB) policy for USSD banking in Nigeria is an important change in how customers are charged for transactions. It emerged as a consensus option between banking and telecommunications services sectors and their respective regulators (the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Communications Commission) to address challenges around the seamless provision of USSD services. It is also designed to enhance customer experience and transparency

To this end, NCC provides answers to frequently asked questions like: What is the End User Billing (EUB) model? Why is the EUB model being introduced? What measures are in place to protect customer data? and more.

In regards to 'End User Billing (EUB) model' the commission said, "when you use USSD for any transaction, you pay through your airtime. But when you use it for banking transactions, most banks deduct the charge from your bank account. This means that you are not in control of your spending, and you pay whatever you are charged."

"With the EUB, now you get to pay for USSD with your airtime like you do on other transactions via your mobile phone. This gives you several advantages, like:

Clarity of your billing: You determine what you will spend before a USSD session, and you know exactly what you have spent immediately you conclude the transaction. Just like with your calls, SMS and data sessions. You do not have to wait till deductions are made from your bank account.

There will be no more issues around USSD deductions from your bank account.

Opt-in/Opt-out Options: You are free to opt-in or out of using USSD services for banking transactions.

Also the commission said, " The EUB model is an important change in how customers are charged for transactions. It is being introduced to improve consumer quality of experience and to put customers in better control of their spending. There will be no more deductions from your bank account for USSD. The model also helps to resolve long-standing disputes over USSD service debts between banks and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have approved this change"

The NCC and CBN have put several measures in place to protect consumers. These include the following:

Better Information: Your banks must inform you of the switch to EUB before implementation. You are free to stop using the channel if you do not wish to pay through your airtime.

Better value: USSD will continue to be charged at N6.98k per session. A session can last up to 120 seconds, so you do not have to rush. This gives you better value as other transactions are charged at N1.63 per session of 20 seconds. This gives you a discount since you are paying N6.98 instead of N9.78.

What should consumers do if they experience challenges accessing the USSD platform or whilst transacting on the USSD platform?

If you experience any challenges in accessing the USSD platform, reach out to your network operator; if you have challenges whilst transacting on the USSD platform, please contact your bank directly for assistance. Both Banks and Telecom Operators are obligated to provide support and ensure that consumers can effectively use USSD channels without issue". the commission said