If you are an MTN customer in Nigeria, you may have noticed some changes in the USSD codes you use to access various services on the network. This is because MTN, along with other network providers, is implementing a new USSD code framework that was introduced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in 2017.
The NCC’s goal is to harmonize the USSD codes across different network providers, making it easier for users to access services like airtime recharge, data balance, data plans, and more. This will also stimulate competition among service providers and streamline marketing efforts.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated, including what has changed, what has remained the same, and how to use the new codes.
What has changed in the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated?
The most noticeable change in the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated is that the old legendary code *556# to check your airtime balance is no longer working. Instead, you will need to dial *310# to check your account balance.
Similarly, other old codes have been replaced by new ones, as shown in the table below:
| Old Code | New Code | Service |
|---|---|---|
| *556# | *310# | Check account balance |
| *131*4# | *323# | Check data balance |
| *131# | *312# | Data plans |
| *904# | *311# | Airtime recharge |
| *606# | *303# | Borrowing services |
| *131*2# | *321# | Share services |
| *123*5# | *305# | VAS |
These new codes are part of the unified USSD code framework that applies to all network providers in Nigeria. The NCC has set a deadline of May 17, 2023, for all network providers to fully implement these changes.
What has remained the same in the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated?
While some codes have changed, some have remained the same. For instance, you can still dial *996# to check your NIN status and link it to your MTN number. This is because the NCC has recommended that banks and other financial institutions should keep their codes unchanged to avoid affecting their service delivery.
Other codes that have remained the same include:
- *123#: To access MTN main menu and other services
- *121#: To access MTN customer care
- *460#: To migrate to MTN beta talk
- *406#: To migrate to MTN pulse
You can also use some of the old codes as alternatives to the new ones until they are phased out completely. For example, you can still use *131*4# or *559# to check your data balance instead of *323#. However, it is advisable to get familiar with the new codes as soon as possible.
How to use the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated?
Using the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated is very easy and straightforward. All you need to do is dial the code that corresponds to the service you want to access and follow the prompts on your screen.
For example, if you want to check your account balance, you will dial *310# and wait for a confirmation message that shows your balance. If you want to recharge your airtime, you will dial *311#, enter the recharge PIN, and press send.
You can also use a pop-up menu that shows all the available services when you dial *556#. You will see a list of options like this:
- Data plans
- Airtime recharge
- Borrowing services
- Account balance
- Data balance
- Share services
- VAS
You can then enter the number that corresponds to the service you want and press send.
Checkout: Complete List of MTN Numbers (Telephone) Prefixes in Nigeria 2023
Conclusion
The MTN new USSD code 2023 updated as part of the NCC’s initiative to harmonize the USSD codes across different network providers in Nigeria. This will make it easier for users to access various services on their mobile phones without needing an internet connection.
The new codes are simple and easy to use, and they offer the same quality of service as the old ones. However, some users may need some time to adjust to the changes and memorize the new codes.
We hope this article has helped you understand everything you need to know about the MTN new USSD code 2023 updated. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below.
