Wondering how to check data balance for all networks in Nigeria? You’re not alone. With data being essential for work, studies, and staying connected, knowing your exact balance is crucial to avoid sudden disconnection.
This complete guide provides the proven methods for MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile. We cover USSD codes, mobile apps, and SMS methods tailored for Nigerian users.
Follow our expert tips to manage your data effectively, understand bundle plans, and get alerts before your data finishes. This guide ensures you stay in control of your internet usage and spending.
Requirements / What You Need
Checking your data balance is straightforward and typically requires minimal items. Here’s what you need, with a focus on the Nigerian context:
- A Registered SIM Card: Your SIM must be fully registered with your NIN (National Identification Number) as mandated by NCC regulations. An unlinked or barred SIM cannot perform balance checks.
- A Mobile Phone: Any basic phone (feature phone) or smartphone will work. For USSD codes, even a phone without active data can be used.
- Network Connectivity: Your phone must have at least one signal bar from your network provider. Note that in areas with poor reception, USSD requests may fail.
- Knowledge of the Correct USSD Code: Each network has a unique, free code. Dialing the wrong code may lead to unintended subscriptions or charges.
- For App Methods (Optional): A smartphone, a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data to download the app initially), and your registered phone number to log in.
Important Note: There is no fee (₦0) to check your data balance via the standard USSD codes. If you are prompted to pay, you have likely dialed an incorrect code. You can also visit a trusted cyber café or your network’s official retailer for assistance if you encounter issues.
Step-by-Step Process
Follow this clear, step-by-step guide to check your data balance on any Nigerian network. The primary method is via USSD codes, which work on all phone types.
Step 1: Identify Your Network Provider
First, confirm the network of the SIM card you want to check. This is crucial because using MTN’s code on a Glo line will not work. Look for the network name on your phone’s screen or check the SIM pack.
Step 2: Dial the Correct USSD Code
Open your phone’s dialer and carefully enter the code for your network. These codes are free and work without active data. The standard codes are:
– MTN: Dial *310#
– Glo: Dial *127*0#
– Airtel: Dial *310#
– 9mobile: Dial *228#
Watch out for typing errors. If the code fails, ensure you have network signal. In areas with congestion, you may need to try twice.
Step 3: Send the USSD Request
After typing the code, press the call/send button. A pop-up menu will appear on your screen. This process usually takes 5-10 seconds. If you get a “Request Failed” or “Connection Problem” message, it’s often due to poor network service. Wait a moment and try again.
Step 4: Navigate the USSD Menu
The pop-up menu will list options. For data balance, you typically need to select an option like “Check Balance” or “Data Balance.” Use the corresponding number on your keypad (e.g., press 1) to select it. Do not select options for “Buy Data” or “Gift Data” unless you intend to.
Step 5: Receive and Read Your Balance
Within seconds, you will receive a notification SMS or a USSD screen displaying your remaining data balance in MB or GB, and often your expiry date. For example, “Your data balance is 1.5GB valid until 25/05/2024.” Take note of the expiry date, as unused data may be forfeited after it passes.
Step 6: Alternative Method (My Network App)
If USSD fails, use your network’s app. Download “MyMTN,” “GloWorld,” “Airtel Thanks,” or “9mobile” app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Open the app, log in with your phone number (you may receive an OTP), and your data balance is usually displayed on the main dashboard.
Alternative Methods
Beyond USSD codes, you have other reliable ways to check your data balance in Nigeria. These methods are useful when USSD menus are down or if you prefer more detailed account management.
1. Using Your Network’s Mobile App
Download your provider’s official app (MyMTN, GloWorld, Airtel Thanks, 9mobile). After registering with your phone number, your data balance and expiry are prominently displayed on the dashboard. This method is better for tracking daily usage, buying new plans, and accessing exclusive offers. It requires an initial internet connection (use Wi-Fi at home, office, or a café to download).
2. SMS Shortcode
Some networks allow balance checks via SMS. For instance, with MTN, you can text “2” to 131. This is a solid backup if USSD fails due to network congestion, a common issue in busy areas like Lagos Island or Abuja’s business districts.
3. Visiting a Physical Service Centre
You can walk into any official MTN Connect Store, Glo Café, Airtel Experience Centre, or 9mobile Care Centre across states like Rivers, Kano, or Enugu. A customer care agent will check your balance for you. This option is best if you’re also resolving other issues, like SIM registration problems or disputing unauthorized deductions.
Common Problems and Solutions
When trying to check your data balance in Nigeria, you might encounter specific, local issues. Here are the most common problems and practical solutions.
Problem: “Transaction Failed” or “Service Temporarily Unavailable” on USSD
This is often due to network congestion, especially during peak hours (e.g., evenings in Lagos or Abuja) or when a network is experiencing a nationwide service disruption. Sometimes, your SIM may be temporarily barred for incomplete NIN linkage.
Solution: Wait 5-10 minutes and try the USSD code again. If it persists, switch to an alternative method like sending an SMS code or using your network’s mobile app over Wi-Fi. Ensure your SIM is fully NIN-compliant by dialing *996# to check your linkage status.
Problem: USSD Code Redirects to a Data Purchase Menu
You dial *310# to check your balance but are instead shown options to buy data bundles. This happens when networks update their USSD menus, and the primary code changes.
Solution: Use the correct, updated code. For MTN, try *131*4# or text “2” to 131. For Airtel, use *323# or *140#. Always double-check the official code on the network’s website or via a quick Google search (e.g., “Airtel data balance code 2024”).
Problem: No Data Balance Shown, Only Airtime
You successfully run the USSD check, but the response only shows your airtime balance with no mention of data. This usually means your active data plan has expired, or you are on a pay-as-you-go plan without an active bundle.
Solution: First, dial the specific data balance code for your network. If it confirms zero balance, you need to purchase a new data plan. You can also check your data usage history via your network’s mobile app to see when your last bundle finished.
Problem: Mobile App Not Loading or Showing Login Errors
The “MyMTN” or “Airtel Thanks” app may fail to load your dashboard, get stuck, or reject your phone number. This is common with unstable internet connections or during app server maintenance.
Solution: Ensure you have a stable connection. Try switching between Wi-Fi and your mobile data. Clear the app’s cache from your phone settings or uninstall and reinstall the app. As a last resort, use the USSD method for a quick balance check while the app issue is resolved.
Fees, Costs and Timeline
Understanding the costs involved in checking your data balance helps you avoid unnecessary charges from agents or fraudulent codes.
Official Cost: The standard process is free (₦0). Checking your data balance via the correct USSD codes (*310#, *127*0#, etc.) or through your network’s official mobile app incurs no charge from MTN, Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile.
Unofficial Fees & Warnings: Be cautious at local phone repair shops or unofficial retailers. Some may charge between ₦50 to ₦200 to “help” you check your balance—this is a service fee, not a network charge, and you can do it yourself for free. Never pay for this.
Timeline: The balance check is instantaneous. Once you send the USSD code, you should receive a response within 5-15 seconds. Delays beyond 30 seconds usually indicate network issues. Using the mobile app may take slightly longer to load (10-30 seconds), depending on your internet speed. There are no processing days or waiting periods.
Warnings and Scams to Avoid
While checking your data balance is simple, staying alert to common Nigerian scams will protect your account and funds.
- Fake USSD Codes: Avoid codes shared on unofficial blogs, WhatsApp broadcasts, or Twitter threads promising “extra data.” Codes like *123*[unknown]# or *365# can be engineered to deduct your airtime or subscribe you to unwanted services. Only use the official codes listed in this guide or on your network’s website.
- Overcharging Agents: Unauthorized street agents or cybercafé attendants may claim there is a “service fee” to check your balance or that your SIM needs “reconfiguration.” This is false. Politely decline and use the free methods yourself.
- Phishing Links & Fake Apps: Do not click on links in SMS or WhatsApp messages claiming your “data balance has expired, click here to check.” These lead to fake login portals designed to steal your phone number and PIN. Only download your network’s app from the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Unauthorized Deductions: If you notice unexplained airtime deductions (₦50, ₦100) after using a USSD code, you may have accidentally subscribed to a Value-Added Service (VAS). Immediately dial *312# to check and unsubscribe from any active VAS subscriptions.
Acceptance, Use and Next Steps
The methods described in this guide are universally accepted across Nigeria. Whether you are in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, or a rural area, the USSD codes, SMS options, and mobile apps work on all active, NIN-linked lines from the four major networks. You can use these checks at home, at your workplace, or while visiting a cyber café for assistance.
What You Should Do Next: After confirming your data balance, take proactive steps to manage it. Set up data usage alerts on your phone (in Android/iOS settings) or via your network’s app to get warnings at 50%, 80%, and 100% usage. If your balance is low, immediately purchase a new plan that suits your needs using the official USSD codes or app to avoid overpaying for pay-as-you-go rates.
Limitations to Note: These balance checks only show data from your main bundle. They typically do not display bonus data (like YouTube or social media data) or night plan balances separately—you may need to dial a specific code (e.g., *323# for Airtel night data) or check the app for a breakdown. Also, balance information is not a legal document but is sufficient for personal tracking and management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the code to check data balance on all networks in Nigeria?
The primary USSD codes are: MTN (*310# or *131*4#), Glo (*127*0#), Airtel (*310# or *323#), and 9mobile (*228#). These codes are free and work without an active internet connection. Always dial from the phone line you want to check. If one code doesn’t respond, try the alternative listed for your network.
Why is my MTN data balance not showing when I dial *310#?
If *310# only shows airtime or fails, your active data bundle may have expired. Try the specific code *131*4#. If that fails, ensure your SIM has network signal and is not barred due to incomplete NIN linkage. Network congestion can also cause delays; try again after a few minutes.
How can I check my Glo data balance without airtime?
You can check your Glo data balance with zero airtime. Dial *127*0#—this USSD request is completely free. You do not need credit to run it. If the menu doesn’t appear, ensure you have a network signal. You can also use the GloWorld app on Wi-Fi.
How do I check my Airtel data balance expiry date?
When you dial *310# or *323#, the response SMS usually includes both your remaining data and the expiry date (e.g., “valid until 25/05/2024”). For a more detailed view, log into the Airtel Thanks app. The dashboard clearly shows your active plans and their exact expiry timings.
Can I check my 9mobile data balance online?
Yes. The main online method is through the “9mobile” mobile app, available on app stores. After logging in with your number, your balance is on the homepage. Alternatively, you can manage your account and view balance details on the 9mobile website by logging into your self-care portal.
I was charged for checking my data balance. Is this normal?
No. Checking your balance via the official USSD codes is free. If you were charged (e.g., ₦10 or ₦20), you likely dialed an incorrect code that triggered a paid service. Check your airtime statement via *310# for MTN or *123# for others to see the deduction. Stick to the official codes listed here.
How do I check data balance for a second line on my phone?
If your phone is dual-SIM, ensure you select the correct SIM line in your dialer app before typing the USSD code. Most Android phones have a “SIM 1” or “SIM 2” toggle in the dialer. Dial the code corresponding to that line’s network. You must check each line separately.
What should I do if no USSD code is working for my network?
First, ensure you have network signal. If codes fail, it could be a widespread network issue. Immediately switch to an alternative: use your network’s mobile app over Wi-Fi, send an SMS code (e.g., text “INFO” to 131 for MTN), or contact customer care via their official toll-free line (e.g., 300 for MTN).
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes to help Nigerian subscribers manage their data. While we strive for accuracy, USSD codes and network procedures are subject to change by the respective service providers (MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9mobile). Always verify the latest codes on your network’s official website or customer care channels. We are not affiliated with any telecommunications company or the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Users are advised to exercise caution with third-party services.