UBA empowers customers with instant connectivity via new USSD advance top-up feature

In a bold move to further streamline mobile banking and meet customer needs on the go, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has introduced Advance Top-Up, a new feature on its USSD platform, *919#, designed to ensure customers stay connected even when they run out of airtime or data.

The service, accessible by dialing 9199#, enables users to instantly borrow airtime or data from their mobile devices—no internet connection required. Launched at UBA’s headquarters in Marina, Lagos, the feature adds to the bank’s growing suite of mobile solutions aimed at enhancing convenience and digital inclusion.

Shamsideen Fashola, UBA’s Group Head of Retail and Digital Banking, highlighted the innovation as part of the bank’s broader strategy to prioritize ease and accessibility for its users.

“Advance Top-Up is more than just a service—it’s a lifeline for connectivity. Whether you’re in a remote location or caught in an emergency, 9199# ensures you’re never out of reach,” said Fashola. “It reflects our dedication to customer-centric innovation.”

The Advance Top-Up option joins a robust lineup of features on the *919# platform, including money transfers, airtime and data purchases, bill payments, card management, and account inquiries—all accessible without an internet connection.

Alero Ladipo, UBA’s Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, emphasized that the feature was developed in direct response to customer feedback.

“Our customers asked, and we delivered. Advance Top-Up ensures that communication doesn’t stop due to low airtime. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it works exactly when you need it the most,” Ladipo explained.

This innovation comes on the heels of other recent tech rollouts by the bank, including an upgraded Point of Sale (POS) terminal and the UBA MONI App, both aimed at boosting digital payment adoption and supporting small businesses across Africa.

UBA’s commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive banking is underscored by its expansive footprint—operating in 20 African countries and key global markets including the UK, USA, France, and the UAE. With over 25,000 employees and more than 45 million customers, UBA continues to lead the charge in transforming banking experiences across the continent and beyond.