In Nigeria’s digital economy, affordable internet is essential. This complete guide reveals proven methods on how to buy cheap data using USSD.
We cut through the confusion to give you clear, step-by-step instructions for all major networks. You’ll learn the specific codes, best-value plans, and expert tips to maximize your data budget.
Forget overpaying. This authoritative guide, tailored for Nigerian users, will help you navigate MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile offers to get the most gigabytes for your Naira. Let’s dive into the practical steps.
Requirements / What You Need
To buy cheap data using USSD in Nigeria, you don’t need much. The process is designed for simplicity, but having the right things ready ensures a smooth transaction.
- A Functional Mobile Phone: Any phone—smartphone or basic feature phone—that can make calls and access the USSD menu (*XXX#) is sufficient. This makes it accessible even in areas with poor internet, as USSD works on all networks.
- An Active SIM Card: Your SIM must be fully registered with your NIN and active on the network (MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile) you wish to buy data for. Ensure it has at least a small airtime balance, as some networks require a fee (usually around ₦10) to process the USSD session.
- Your Phone’s PIN: For security, you will be prompted to enter your mobile money PIN (for transfers from a bank or wallet) or your SIM’s PIN if using airtime. This is a crucial security step many users overlook.
- Knowledge of Your Data Needs: Decide in advance if you need daily, weekly, or monthly data. This prevents you from impulsively choosing a costly plan. Check your current balance first by dialling *323# for MTN, *140# for Airtel, *127*0# for Glo, or *228# for 9mobile.
You do not need a bank app or internet connection for the core USSD purchase. However, if funding your phone via USSD bank transfer, you’ll need your bank’s USSD code memorized. For those without a personal phone, visiting a trusted cyber café or using a friend’s device with your SIM is a common practice.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Dial the Correct USSD Code for Your Network On your phone’s dialer, enter the specific code for your network. For MTN, dial *312#; for Airtel, dial *141#; for Glo, dial *127#; and for 9mobile, dial *229#. Press the call button. A menu will load on your screen—this can take 10-20 seconds, especially on Glo or 9mobile during peak hours. Be patient and avoid dialing again, as this may cause a “session conflict” error.
Step 2: Navigate the USSD Data Menu The menu will present several options. You are looking for the one that says “Data Bundle,” “Buy Data,” or “Data Plans.” Use the corresponding number (e.g., “Press 1 for Data”) to select it. Nigerian USSD menus often have multiple layers; follow the prompts carefully. If you make a mistake, you can usually cancel by dialing * or waiting for the session to timeout.
Step 3: Select Your Preferred Cheap Data Plan You will now see a list of available data plans (daily, weekly, monthly). The cheaper plans are usually at the top for daily or weekly use. For example, you might see “₦50 for 25MB” or “₦200 for 1GB weekly.” Use the number key to select the plan you want. **Crucial Tip:** Some networks like MTN show “Social Bundles” (for WhatsApp only) first. Ensure you are selecting a general “Data Plan” for full internet access.
Step 4: Confirm the Deduction and Authenticate The screen will ask you to confirm the purchase, showing the plan cost and validity. Confirm by selecting “Yes” or “1”. You will then be prompted to enter your **PIN** for authorization. This is either your mobile money transfer PIN (if paying directly from your bank) or your SIM’s default PIN (if using airtime). Enter it carefully. A successful transaction will generate a notification SMS immediately. If you get an error like “Insufficient Balance,” check if you have enough airtime plus the ₦10 USSD fee.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation SMS and Activate After successful payment, wait for the confirmation message from your network (e.g., “131”). This SMS contains your data balance and expiry date. Sometimes, there is a slight delay of 2-5 minutes. Do not panic and attempt to buy again, as this will lead to a double charge. Once received, turn your mobile data off and back on to activate the new bundle. You can always check your data balance by dialing the appropriate check code.
Alternative Methods
While USSD is universal, other reliable methods exist to buy cheap data in Nigeria. The best choice depends on your location, device, and immediate needs.
For those with smartphone access, using your network’s official app—like MyMTN, Airtel Thanks, or Glo Café—is often superior. These apps provide a clearer view of all available data plans, including exclusive online-only offers that are cheaper than USSD options. They are ideal when you have a stable Wi-Fi or existing data connection to complete the purchase.
If you prefer a cash transaction or are helping someone less tech-savvy, visiting licensed operator stores or accredited cyber cafés nationwide is a solid alternative. In states like Lagos, Abuja, or Rivers, you can also use banking apps (e.g., GTWorld, Zenith, UBA) to buy data directly for yourself or as a gift to another number, which is useful for sending bundles to family in remote areas.
Finally, many Nigerian institutions like universities (e.g., UNILAG, UNN) have dedicated campus data kiosks offering subsidized rates for students. This method is best for students seeking the absolute lowest cost per gigabyte within their school community.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: “Transaction Failed” or “Unable to Process” Error
This is often due to insufficient airtime covering both the data plan cost and the hidden USSD session fee (usually ₦10-₦20). Network congestion, especially on Glo and 9mobile during evening hours, can also cause this.
Solution: First, ensure your balance exceeds the plan cost by at least ₦20. If it does, wait 10 minutes and try again. Dial *310# for MTN or *123# for Airtel to check if there’s an ongoing system upgrade affecting services.
Problem: Data Bundle Deducted but Not Activated
You receive a payment confirmation SMS, but your internet remains off. This delay is common and can last from 2 minutes to an hour, often due to network glitches.
Solution: Do not repurchase. First, turn your phone to flight mode for 30 seconds and then back off. If that fails, manually check your data balance via USSD (e.g., *323# for MTN). If it shows, restart your phone. If the issue persists after 2 hours, contact customer care via 180 for MTN or 300 for Airtel with your transaction reference from the SMS.
Problem: Accidentally Buying a Social Media Bundle Instead of Full Data
Many Nigerians confuse MTN’s *312# menu, which prioritizes cheaper “Social Bundles” (for WhatsApp, Facebook only) over general data plans.
Solution: Always read the menu carefully. For full internet access, navigate to options labeled “Data Plans” or “Browse Bundles.” If you’ve bought the wrong bundle, it is typically non-refundable. Use it for its purpose and be more careful on your next purchase.
Problem: USSD Code Not Working or Showing “Invalid MMI Code”
This can happen if the SIM is not properly inserted, the network is temporarily unavailable in your area (common in some parts of Lagos during heavy rain), or the code has been changed.
Solution: Re-insert your SIM card and restart your phone. Ensure you are dialing the correct, updated code (e.g., Airtel uses *141#, not *123# for data). If problems continue, borrow a phone to test if it’s a device issue, or use an alternative method like your banking app to buy the data.
Fees, Costs and Timeline
The primary cost is the price of the data plan itself. Popular cheap options include MTN’s **₦50 for 25MB daily**, Airtel’s **₦200 for 1GB weekly**, Glo’s **₦500 for 1.8GB monthly**, and 9mobile’s **₦1,000 for 2.5GB monthly**. These are official rates when purchased via USSD or the network’s app.
Be aware of two additional fees. First, a **₦10–₦20 network USSD charge** is automatically deducted for the session. Second, if you use an agent or cyber café, they may add a service fee of **₦20–₦100**, especially in busy areas of Lagos or Abuja. Always confirm the total cost before paying to avoid overcharging.
The transaction timeline is instant. Once confirmed, your data should activate within **2 to 5 minutes**. Delays beyond 10 minutes are uncommon and indicate a problem requiring customer care. Plan validity begins immediately upon activation, not at the start of your next day.
Warnings and Scams to Avoid
- Fake USSD Codes and Phishing Links: Avoid codes shared on WhatsApp or Twitter like *122*Number# promising “free data.” These are scams designed to steal your airtime or personal details. Only use the official codes from your network’s website or customer care.
- Overcharging by Unaccredited Agents: While many roadside agents are legitimate, some inflate prices. Always know the official cost of the data plan (e.g., ₦500 for 1.8GB on Glo) and question any fee significantly higher. Insist on receiving the confirmation SMS on your phone before paying.
- “Data Rollover” or “Double Data” Scams: Be wary of messages claiming you can roll over expired data or get double data by dialing a code. This is false; data rollover is a formal, rare promotion announced only by the networks themselves, not via random SMS.
- Fake Customer Care Numbers: Scammers create fake helpline numbers. Always use the official, verified numbers: 180 (MTN), 300 (Airtel), 121 (Glo), and 200 (9mobile). Do not share your PIN or OTP with anyone claiming to be from these lines.
Acceptance, Use and Next Steps
Data purchased via USSD is fully accepted across Nigeria on your specific network’s infrastructure. It works for all internet activities—browsing, streaming, using apps like WhatsApp and Facebook, and accessing online banking platforms. There are no geographical restrictions within the country; it functions in all 36 states, though speed may vary based on your local network coverage.
Your immediate next step is to **monitor your data usage**. Dial the appropriate balance check code (*323# for MTN, *140# for Airtel, etc.) regularly to avoid surprise depletion. To maximize value, consider setting data limits on your phone or using data-saving modes in apps like YouTube and Instagram.
A key limitation is that these cheap data bundles are **non-transferable and non-refundable**. Once purchased and activated, you cannot convert them to airtime or gift them to another number unless you use your bank app’s specific “data gifting” feature. Also, note that the validity period is fixed; unused data expires at the end of the term and does not roll over unless under a specific, advertised network promotion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which network has the cheapest data via USSD in Nigeria?
There’s no single cheapest network, as offers change. Typically, Glo and 9mobile have lower-priced monthly plans (e.g., ₦500 for 1.8GB), while MTN and Airtel often have competitive weekly bundles. The best value depends on your usage pattern and location. Compare plans monthly by dialing each network’s USSD code to see current promotions.
Can I buy data for another phone number using USSD?
Yes, you can. This is called “data gifting.” For MTN, dial *312*Phone Number*Plan Code#. For Airtel, it’s *141*7*Phone Number#. You will need the recipient’s number and the specific plan code. Payment is deducted from your own airtime balance. Note, not all cheap daily plans are available for gifting.
Why was I charged ₦10 extra on top of my data plan?
The extra ₦10 (or sometimes ₦20) is a standard USSD session fee charged by your mobile network for using the service. It is not a scam. This fee applies even if the transaction fails, so always ensure your balance covers the data cost plus at least ₦20 to avoid failure.
How can I check my remaining data balance?
Each network has a specific USSD code. For MTN, dial *323#; for Airtel, dial *140#; for Glo, dial *127*0#; and for 9mobile, dial *228#. You will receive an SMS detailing your remaining data and expiry date. It’s advisable to check this before buying a new bundle to avoid waste.
What should I do if I buy the wrong data plan?
Unfortunately, data purchases via USSD are immediate and **non-refundable**. If you buy a social bundle instead of a full data plan, you must use it for its intended purpose (e.g., WhatsApp only). The only recourse is to wait for it to expire or exhaust it, then purchase the correct plan. Always read the menu options carefully.
Do I need internet to use USSD codes?
No, you do not need an active internet connection. USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) works on your network’s basic signal, similar to making a phone call. This is why it’s a reliable method to buy data even when you have zero MB left or are in an area with poor internet service.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available procedures and the author’s professional expertise in the Nigerian telecoms sector. Network plans, USSD codes, and pricing are subject to change by the service providers. Always confirm current rates and terms directly with MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile before any transaction. The publisher is not affiliated with any telecom company and assumes no liability for individual transaction outcomes.