Banks across Nigeria will implement a revised fee structure for SMS transaction alerts and other related text messages sent to customers, with each message now attracting a charge of N6, beginning Thursday, today.
This development follows an approved increase in telecom tariffs by service providers, which was recently endorsed by the Federal Government.
The new SMS fee represents a 50 percent hike from the previous rate of N4 per message.
Several banks have already notified their customers about the change through official communication channels.
Guaranty Trust Bank Limited, in an email titled “Increase in SMS Transaction Alert fee,” informed its customers of the adjustment.
The email stated, “Dear Valued Customer, Please be informed that effective Thursday, May 1, 2025, the SMS transaction alert fee will increase from N4 to N6 per message. This adjustment is due to a recent increase in telecom rates as communicated by the telecommunication service providers.
“Kindly note that transaction alerts are important and help you keep track and stay in control of activities on your account.
“If you prefer not to receive transaction alerts via SMS, you can update your preferences by completing the transaction alert form on our website.
“SMS alerts to international phone numbers are subject to higher charges.”
The revised charges underscore the ripple effect of increased operational costs in the telecom sector on financial services, prompting customers to reassess their alert preferences.
