*The Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria announces the commencement of harmonised shortcodes ‘in pursuant to a regulatory modernisation initiative by the Nigerian Communications Commission’

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

For uniformity of common short codes across all networks, the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has announced the commencement of harmonised shortcodes in the country’s telecoms ecosystem.

Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman and Gbolahan Awonuga, Head of Operations at ALTON respectively, noted this development in a joint statement issued Tuesday, March 7, 2023, in Lagos.

The Association stated “this is in pursuant to a regulatory modernisation initiative by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).”

In terms of the benefit of the uniform shortcodes, ALTON stressed the harmonisation of shortcodes would enable common short codes telecoms consumers utilise to be uniform across all networks in the country’s ecosystem.

The code for recharging a line, for instance, can be used across all mobile networks for the same function, said the body.

The statement also said with the commencement of shortcodes harmonisation, shortcodes of individual telecoms companies and the harmonised shortcodes will run concurrently for a year, after which the old codes will become inactive.

It further stated: “The harmonisation of shortcodes is aimed at implementing a streamlined process for common shortcodes across the industry, by making life easier for Nigerians through the memorisation of single codes, for various services across all networks as well as providing a cohesive regulatory framework that is consistent with global best practices.

“Following the directive from NCC, the association hereby informs the general public that the Network Operators have begun implementing the shortcodes, working closely with the NCC.”

ALTON as well disclosed “the Commission has provided adequate time for subscribers to get used to this new development.

“We are confident this will enhance customer experience across networks.

“During migration (which is to be concluded by 17th May, 2023) old and new common codes will run concurrently, after which the old codes will cease to operate.”