USSD airtime recharge option is one of the fastest, (in fact the fastest on some occasions) and the easiest. It also comes in very handy when traveling or stranded in a new location and you are in need of urgent top-up for either data or voice calls.
It is far better than even the banks’ apps and third party apps in terms of convenience, since you do not need to login and go through the hassle of typing a password. USSD does not also requires internet connection to get your airtime topped-up.
In fact, one of thing that makes it preferable to other options is that It is completely free, but that is about to change as banks will soon start charging people for using USSD to top-up.
MTN has started sending SMS to its customers regarding the End User Billing for Bank USSD Services. The SMS reads;
“Yello, as requested by your bank, from Oct 21, we will start charging you directly for USSD access to banking services. Please contact your bank for more info.”
HOWEVER, Federal Government of Nigeria has Suspends Charges by MTN and Zenith Bank on USSD Platform.