Recharge, Borrow Airtime and Data, share Airtime data, etc
This article tends to provide all new USSD codes for mobile network in Nigeria.
In May 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) introduced new USSD codes across all network providers, including MTN, Glo, 9mobile, and Airtel.
These codes are used for transactions such as airtime recharge, data purchase, airtime and data sharing, checking airtime balance, borrowing airtime, linking National Identification Numbers (NIN), and contacting customer care.
In this guide, we’ll go deep into the details of these new USSD codes and why the NCC decided to implement them.
What Are USSD Codes?
Before we go into the new USSD codes, let’s understand what USSD codes are.
USSD codes are short, numeric, or alphanumeric sequences that serve as a means of communication between mobile devices and mobile network service providers.
They are typically dialed using a specific code followed by additional numbers or characters.
Why Did the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Introduce New USSD Codes?
The introduction of new USSD codes by the NCC was driven by several important factors which include;
1.Outdated Codes: The existing USSD codes were becoming outdated and unable to support newer mobile services and features.
2. Security Enhancement: The NCC aimed to enhance the security of USSD transactions, making it more challenging for fraudsters to intercept and misuse them.
Which Network Providers was affected by the New USSD code?
The new USSD codes are applicable to all major network providers in Nigeria, including:
MTN
Airtel
Glo
9mobile
New USSD Codes for Airtime Recharge
Airtime recharge is a fundamental aspect of mobile phone usage. The new USSD codes for airtime recharge are as follows:
MTN: Dial *311*recharge card codes#
Airtel: Dial *555*recharge card codes#
Glo: Dial *123*Recharge card codes#
9mobile: Dial *311*recharge card codes#
To recharge your airtime using these codes, simply dial the respective code and enter your voucher PIN when prompted.
New USSD Codes for Data Purchase
For users looking to purchase data, the new USSD codes are as follows:
- MTN : Dial *312#
- Airtel : Dial *141#
- Glo : Dial *777#
- 9mobile : Dial *312#
To buy data using these codes, dial the specific code and follow the prompts that appear on your screen.
New USSD Codes for Airtime and Data Sharing
Sharing airtime and data with friends and family has never been easier with these new USSD codes:
- MTN : Dial *321#
- Airtel : Dial *123*RecipientNumber*Amount#
- Glo : Dial *123*RecipientNumber*Amount#
- 9mobile : Dial *321#
To share airtime or data using these codes, dial the code and enter the recipient’s phone number and the desired amount.
Other New USSD Codes
In addition to the codes mentioned above, there are additional USSD codes for MTN Service.
- Checking Airtime Balance : Dial *310#
- Borrowing Airtime : Dial *303#
- Linking NIN : Dial *996#
- Contacting Customer Care : Dial *100#
These codes make it more convenient than ever to access essential services and support.
Service | MTN | Airtel | Glo |
Airtime recharge | 311 Voucher PIN # | 555 Voucher PIN # | 123 Voucher PIN # |
Data purchase | *312# | *141# | *777# |
Airtime and data sharing | *321# | 123 Recipient Number * Amount # | 123 Recipient Number * Amount # |
Check airtime balance | *310# | 123 # | 123 # |
Borrow airtime | *303# | 123 Borrow # | 123 Borrow # |
Link NIN | *996# | 123 NIN # | 123 NIN # |
Customer care | *100# | *100# | *100# |
Do-Not-Disturb (DND) | *2442# | *2442# | *2442# |
Porting services | *3232# | 123 Port # | 123 Port # |
Value-added services | *305# | 123 VAS # | 123 VAS # |
Conclusion
The introduction of these new USSD codes by the Nigerian Communications Commission has significantly improved the accessibility, security, and user experience both positively and negatively of mobile services in Nigeria. Whether you are an MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile subscriber, these codes are designed to simplify your interactions with your network provider. I hope you find this piece helpful. Thanks for reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did all network change their code?
The new codes are unified, meaning that they are the same across all networks. This was done to improve customer experience and make it easier for users to access services.
How do I link my National Identification Number (NIN) using the USSD code?
Dial *996# to link your NIN to your mobile number using the USSD code. Follow the instructions provided to complete the process.