Nigeria Bank USSD Code Finder Tool
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How to Use This Code
- 1. Dial the code from your phone (the one linked to your bank account)
- 2. Follow the prompts on your screen
- 3. You don’t need internet or data to use USSD codes
- 4. Works on any phone, even basic feature phones
How It Works
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a technology that lets you access banking services by dialing short codes on your phone. Unlike mobile apps or internet banking, USSD works on any phone without data or WiFi. You just dial a code, and your phone talks directly to your bank’s system through your mobile network.
USSD Code Format:
*BankCode*Service*Details#
Example: *737*Amount*AccountNumber# (GTBank transfer)
Each Nigerian bank has its own USSD code. GTBank uses *737#, Access Bank uses *901#, Zenith uses *966#, and so on. When you dial these codes, you get a menu where you can transfer money, check your balance, buy airtime, pay bills, or manage your account. Everything happens through simple text menus, no app required.
The beauty of USSD is speed and accessibility. It works in areas with poor internet, costs nothing (banks cover the charges), and doesn’t require a smartphone. Whether you’re in Lagos with 4G or a rural area with basic network coverage, USSD banking works the same way.
Complete List of Nigerian Bank USSD Codes
| Bank Name | USSD Code | Quick Dial |
|---|---|---|
| GTBank | *737# | Works on all networks |
| Access Bank | *901# | Works on all networks |
| Zenith Bank | *966# | Works on all networks |
| UBA | *919# | Works on all networks |
| First Bank | *894# | Works on all networks |
| Ecobank | *326# | Works on all networks |
| Union Bank | *826# | Works on all networks |
| Fidelity Bank | *770# | Works on all networks |
| Sterling Bank | *822# | Works on all networks |
| Wema Bank | *945# | Works on all networks |
| Stanbic IBTC | *909# | Works on all networks |
| Heritage Bank | *322# | Works on all networks |
| Polaris Bank | *833# | Works on all networks |
| Unity Bank | *7799# | Works on all networks |
| Keystone Bank | *7111# | Works on all networks |
Who Needs This Tool?
Anyone in Nigeria who moves money. If you need to send someone cash urgently, check your account balance before buying something, or top up airtime when you’re out of data, USSD codes are your fastest option.
Market traders use USSD to confirm payments from customers instantly. Students dial these codes to check if their allowance arrived. Freelancers use them to transfer money to clients or suppliers without opening a banking app. Parents send money to their kids’ accounts with a quick code. Small business owners check balances between sales.
💡 Quick Tip
Save your bank’s USSD code in your phone contacts. Name it something like “GTB Transfer” or “Access Banking” so you can find it quickly when you need it.
What to Do If the Code Doesn’t Work
First, make sure you’re dialing from the phone number registered with your bank account. USSD banking only works from your registered number. If you’re using a different SIM card or recently changed your number, the code will fail.
Second, check that you have network coverage. USSD needs a basic cellular signal to work. If you’re in an area with zero bars, move to a spot with better coverage and try again.
Third, verify you’re entering the code correctly. It must start with * and end with #. Missing either symbol means the code won’t dial properly. Also, don’t add spaces or extra characters.
When Should You Use USSD Banking?
Use USSD when you need speed and don’t have reliable internet. It’s perfect for urgent transfers when someone’s waiting for payment, checking your balance before making a purchase, or buying airtime when your data runs out.
USSD is also your backup when mobile apps aren’t working. If your banking app crashes, won’t load, or you forgot your login password, USSD lets you handle basic transactions immediately. No app download, no login, no password reset needed.
However, for complex transactions (like opening fixed deposits, applying for loans, or viewing full transaction history), you’ll still need internet banking or the mobile app. USSD handles the everyday stuff fast, but it’s not meant for everything.
Why Nigerian Banks Use USSD Codes
The Central Bank of Nigeria pushed banks to adopt USSD in 2013 to increase financial inclusion. Millions of Nigerians had bank accounts but couldn’t use internet banking because they didn’t own smartphones or lacked reliable data. USSD solved that problem by bringing banking to any mobile phone.
Today, USSD handles billions of naira in transactions every month. It’s become the go-to method for quick peer-to-peer transfers, especially in areas where internet access is inconsistent. The codes work across all mobile networks (MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9mobile), making them universally accessible.
Common USSD Banking Services
Money Transfers
This is the most popular USSD service. You can send money to any Nigerian bank account by dialing your bank’s transfer code, entering the amount and recipient’s account number, and confirming with your PIN. The money usually arrives within seconds.
Balance Inquiry
Check your current account balance instantly without logging into any app. Just dial the code, select the balance option, and your available balance appears on screen. Some banks charge a small fee (around ₦4), others offer it free.
Airtime and Data Purchase
Buy airtime for yourself or someone else directly from your account. You can also purchase data bundles for all major networks. The amount is instantly deducted from your bank balance and credited to the phone number.
Bill Payments
Pay for electricity (PHCN, Eko Electricity, Ikeja Electric), TV subscriptions (DSTV, GOtv, Startimes), and internet services through USSD. Select the biller, enter your meter or smartcard number, and confirm the payment.
How to Stay Safe Using USSD Codes
Never share your USSD PIN with anyone. Unlike your ATM PIN, some people don’t realize their USSD PIN is just as sensitive. Anyone with your phone and PIN can transfer money from your account.
Always verify the recipient’s account number before confirming transfers. USSD shows you the account name after you enter the number. Check that it matches who you intend to send money to. Once you confirm, the transaction is instant and usually irreversible.
Keep your phone secure. Since USSD works from your registered number, losing your phone means someone could potentially access your account if they know or guess your PIN. If your phone is stolen, call your bank immediately to block USSD access.
💡 Security Reminder
Most banks lock your USSD access after three wrong PIN attempts. If this happens, you’ll need to visit a branch or call customer service to unlock it. This protects you if someone finds your phone and tries random PINs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need data or WiFi to use USSD codes?
No. USSD works through your mobile network’s signaling channel, not internet data. You can use it even with zero data balance or in areas without internet coverage. All you need is basic cellular network coverage.
Are there charges for using USSD banking?
Most Nigerian banks don’t charge for USSD transactions themselves, but your mobile network might deduct a small amount (usually ₦4 to ₦10) per session. Some banks absorb this cost, others pass it to customers. Check with your specific bank for their policy.
Can I use USSD codes from any phone?
Yes, but only if it’s the phone number registered with your bank account. You can use a basic Nokia, a smartphone, or any phone in between. The technology works on all mobile devices, but security requires using your registered number.
What’s the transfer limit for USSD banking?
Daily limits vary by bank, typically ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦1,000,000. Default limits are usually ₦20,000 for new users. You can request higher limits by visiting your branch or calling customer service. Check your bank’s specific limits.
Can I transfer money to other banks using USSD?
Yes. All Nigerian bank USSD codes support interbank transfers. You can send money from GTBank to Zenith, from Access to UBA, or any combination. The recipient’s bank doesn’t matter, just enter their account number correctly.
What if I enter the wrong account number?
Most USSD systems show you the account name after you enter the number. Always verify this matches your intended recipient before confirming. If you confirm a wrong number, the money goes to that account immediately and reversing it requires contacting your bank and the recipient.
How do I register for USSD banking?
For most banks, just dial the USSD code and follow the registration prompts. You’ll create a PIN and link your account. Some banks require you to register at a branch or through their mobile app first. Check your bank’s website or call customer service for specific steps.
Can I use USSD codes while roaming?
It depends on your mobile network and the roaming partner. USSD generally works on international roaming, but you might face delays or failures. For important transactions while abroad, internet banking or mobile apps are more reliable.