Frequently Asked Questions

Short Codes

  1. How can I apply for Short Code or USSD Code?

    Download copy of the Short Code Application form from the Commission’s website under Technical Standards webpage. Submit the duly completed application form attaching the requested supporting documents along with a covering letter addressed to the Executive Vice Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission at the NCC Head office in Abuja or any of its Zonal offices. The following documents are to be submitted along with this Application Form;
    1. Photocopy of the applicant’s Value Added Service (VAS) license/Offer Letter with evidence of payment (NCC issued receipt) of the license fees. In the case of CBN licensed Mobile Money Operators, attach evidence of grant of license by CBN.
    2. Comprehensive list of all Telecommunication Equipment associated with the service (Name, Make, Model, Manufacturer, etc.) including evidence of Type Approval obtained from the Commission.
    3. Network Architecture (showing how you intend to Connect with the
      Network Operators).
    4. Utilization plan of previously allocated short code range if any (Any service provider applying for short code range expansion must supply this information)
    5. Evidence of payment of N 1,000 for Application form and N 10,000 processing fee payable in Bank Draft in favor of the Nigerian Communications Commission
      Any other Additional Documents (MOU, etc.)

  2. How can I obtain a Value Added Service License?

    The NCC website provides guidance on how to obtain license for different categories licensees including for the provision of VAS services. Applicants are therefore advised to visit the Licensing web page of the Commission’s website.

  3. How long does it take to obtain a Short Code?

    The Commission Process applications as soon as it is received but sometimes it may deem it necessary to invite a company for meeting/presentation to provide clarification on some issues pertaining to the applicant’s submissions or it might request additional information in writing from the applicant which may impact the processing time.

  4. Are the operators obliged to connect a company when issued a short code?

    Yes, Operators are under obligation to connect Licensees of the Commission and VAS Operators allocated short code by the Commission. However, VAS Operators are required to have MOU duly signed with operators has a condition for grant of VAS license.

  5. How much does short code cost?

    For now Short Code/USSD are allocated free of charge to applicants on duly completion and submission of the application form and who meets the eligibility criteria. However, the application form is One Thousand Naira (N1,000.00) and the processing fee is Ten Thousand Naira (N10, 000.00). All payments should be made through the Federal Government remita platform (www.remita.net) and receipts obtained from the Commission’s Finance Cash Office.

  6. What is the validity period of short code assignment?

    All short codes/USSD have a validity period of one (1) year effective from the date of assignment and renewable on expiration.

  7. Can I obtain a short code without Value Added Service (VAS) License?

    Value Added Service (VAS) License is a prerequisite for short code(s) allocation. However, Mobile Money Operators duly licensed by the CBN are exempted due to the MOU that exist between the Commission and CBN to encourage the growth of mobile money in the country.

  8. Is there any guideline that guides the use of short code?

    Yes, "THE GUIDELINES ON SHORT CODE OPERATION IN NIGERIA" can be downloaded from the NCC website www.ncc.gov.ng under Regulatory Functions and Guidelines web page.