*Access Bank Shifts 901# USSD Charges to Airtime Following NCC Directive

LAccess Bank Plc has announced a major change in how customers are charged for using its USSD banking platform. Starting today, the ₦6.98 service fee for transactions performed via the *901# code will no longer be deducted from customers’ bank accounts. Instead, the charge will now be taken from the airtime balance of the phone number linked to the service.

The change follows a recent directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), aimed at standardizing how USSD transaction charges are applied across the banking and telecommunications sectors.

In a message to customers titled *“Important Update on 901# Charges,” Access Bank explained:
*”When you dial 901# to make transfers, pay bills, or access other quick banking services, the ₦6.98 charge will now be deducted from your airtime balance, not your bank account.”

The bank encouraged customers to ensure that they maintain sufficient airtime on their mobile lines to continue enjoying seamless access to its USSD services.

Background to the Change

The update marks the resolution of a long-running debate between Nigerian banks and telecom operators over who should collect and manage USSD service fees. Previously, the ₦6.98 charge was automatically deducted from customers’ bank accounts, causing confusion and complaints among users.

Following mediation by the NCC, the new policy places the charge collection directly in the hands of telecom service providers, aligning Nigeria’s practice with global standards and improving transparency for customers.

What This Means for Customers

• A ₦6.98 fee per USSD session still applies for banking services such as transfers, airtime purchases, bill payments, and balance inquiries.
• The charge will now be deducted from your phone’s airtime balance, not your bank account.
• Customers must ensure they have enough airtime before dialing *901# to avoid failed transactions.

Despite the billing change, the bank assured customers that its USSD platform remains secure, simple, and available 24/7 for convenient banking.

Security Advisory

Access Bank also reminded customers to stay vigilant against fraud:

• Never share your full card number, PIN, or One-Time Password (OTP) through email, phone calls, or messages.
• If your phone is lost or stolen, immediately protect your account by dialing 901911# to deactivate USSD access.

Need Assistance?

Customers can contact Access Bank through its branches, ATMs, digital platforms, or its contact center at 01-2712005-7. More information is available on the bank’s website: www.accessbankplc.com.

This latest update reflects the industry’s ongoing efforts to streamline digital payment channels in Nigeria, improve customer trust, and ensure that banking services remain accessible and transparent for all users.

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