Discovering an error in your Bank Verification Number (BVN) details can be alarming, as it affects all your banking operations. This complete guide provides the proven methods to officially correct mistakes in your name, date of birth, phone number, or other personal data linked to your BVN.
We outline the step-by-step procedures, required documents, and official platforms mandated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).
Requirements / What You Need
Before you visit your bank or attempt any online process, gather these essential items. Being unprepared is a common reason for delays, especially with network issues or bank system downtime.
- Your Physical BVN: Have the 11-digit number memorized or written down. You cannot proceed without it.
- A Valid Government-Issued ID: The original and a clear photocopy. Acceptable IDs are the International Passport, National ID Card (NIN Slip), Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card. Note: a passport photograph alone is not sufficient.
- Proof of Correct Information: To change a name or date of birth, you need an official document supporting the new data. For a name change (e.g., marriage, spelling error), a marriage certificate, affidavit from a Nigerian court, or a newspaper publication is required.
- Active Phone Number: The new number you wish to link must be active and registered in your name for OTP verification.
- Bank Account Details: Have an account with the bank you are visiting, as the correction is initiated through your lead bank.
- Correction Fee: Be prepared to pay a processing fee, which is typically ₦1,020 at most commercial banks. Confirm the exact amount with your branch.
A major point Nigerians misunderstand is that an affidavit is mandatory for a name change, not optional. Also, if using a cyber café for document printing, ensure your sensitive data is protected and log out of all sessions afterwards.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit Your Bank Branch
You must go in person to the branch where you hold an account. Do not visit a bank where you have no account, as they will not be able to process your request. It’s best to go early in the morning to avoid long queues and to account for potential network issues that often slow down banking processes in the afternoon.
Step 2: Request for BVN Correction Form
At the banking hall, approach the customer service desk or the dedicated BVN desk and inform the officer that you need to correct your BVN details. They will provide you with a “BVN Data Correction” or “Bio-data Update” form to fill out. Fill this form carefully, ensuring the new, correct details are clearly stated.
Step 3: Submit Documents & Pay Fee
Submit the completed form alongside all the required original documents and photocopies you gathered. The bank officer will verify them. You will then be asked to pay the processing fee, usually around ₦1,020. Ensure you get an official receipt or evidence of payment for your records.
Step 4: Biometric Re-Capture & Validation
After payment, you will be directed to a desk to have your biometrics (fingerprints and facial image) re-captured. This is a mandatory security step to authenticate that you are the true owner of the BVN. The officer will then log into the NIBSS portal to submit your update request.
Step 5: Get Confirmation & Wait
Once submitted, you should receive an SMS notification from your bank or NIBSS confirming the update request. Do not expect instant changes. The approval and synchronization across all banks in the system can take 24 hours to 5 working days. Persistent network problems or backend verification can sometimes cause delays beyond a week.
Step 6: Verify the Correction
After a few days, verify the update by dialing *565*0# on the phone number linked to your BVN. Alternatively, check your BVN details by visiting your bank’s internet banking platform or USSD code. Confirm that all changes have been reflected accurately.
Alternative Methods
While visiting your bank branch is the primary and most reliable method, there are a few alternative channels, though their availability can be inconsistent.
The most common alternative is initiating the process through your bank’s official mobile app or internet banking portal. Some banks, like Zenith Bank and Access Bank (Diamond), have a “BVN Update” section under their service menus. This is better for simple updates like changing your phone number. However, for complex changes like name or date of birth, you will likely still be directed to visit a branch with physical documents.
For students or staff of large institutions, some banks set up temporary enrolment/correction centres on campuses or at government agency offices. For instance, you might find a stand at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) or a state government secretariat during a dedicated NIN-BVN harmonization drive. This option is better if it’s officially announced and convenient, but always verify the legitimacy of the agents to avoid scams.
Note that the NIBSS website does not offer a direct self-service portal for public BVN correction; all updates must be routed and verified through a licensed financial institution.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: “My Bank Says the NIBSS Portal is Down”
This is a frequent occurrence due to network instability or system maintenance. Bank officers often cite this as the reason they cannot process your request on the spot.
Solution: Politely ask to submit your complete application (form and documents) for processing internally. Get a dated acknowledgment slip from the bank. Follow up after 48 hours. If the issue persists for over a week, you can visit another branch of the same bank, as their local connection to the portal may differ.
Problem: “The Correction Was Done, But My Other Banks Still Show Wrong Details”
The update has not synchronized across all banks in your profile. This delay is common and can last several days after your lead bank confirms the change.
Solution: First, verify the primary update is correct using the USSD code *565*0#. Allow 5-7 working days for full synchronization. If the error remains after that, visit the specific bank branch where the old details persist and request they manually refresh their records by pulling your updated BVN data from the central system.
Problem: “I Have No Valid ID to Support My Name Change”
Many Nigerians, especially in rural areas or older adults, may not have a passport or driver’s license in their new name, making the affidavit seem insufficient to some bank staff.
Solution: A sworn affidavit from a Nigerian court combined with a publication in a national newspaper (like The Guardian or Punch) is legally acceptable. Present both documents together. If challenged, refer to the CBN’s BVN framework which recognizes these as valid proof for name alterations.
Problem: “My Date of Birth Was Wrong From the Initial Registration”
This often happens when agents at registration centres years ago entered estimated dates. Banks are strict on DOB changes as it’s a key identifier.
Solution: You must provide an original document issued around your birth. The most powerful are a birth certificate, baptismal card, or a formal declaration of age from a Nigerian court. An affidavit alone is often rejected for DOB correction. Start by obtaining the birth certificate from the National Population Commission (NPC) if you don’t have one.
Fees, Costs and Timeline
The official processing fee for BVN data correction is set by the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS). You should expect to pay between ₦1,020 to ₦1,500 at any commercial bank in Nigeria. This is the standard charge for the system update.
Be wary of any agent or bank official requesting significantly more money, such as ₦3,000 or ₦5,000, for “express” processing. There is no official expedited service; all updates go through the same NIBSS verification queue. Politely insist on the official fee and request a receipt. Variations are minimal, but some banks in states like Lagos or Abuja may have a slightly higher service charge, which should not exceed ₦1,500.
Regarding timeline, after successful submission at your bank, the update typically reflects within 24 to 72 hours. However, during peak periods, network issues, or for complex changes like name corrections, it can take up to 5 to 7 working days to fully synchronize across all your linked bank accounts. Patience is key, but always follow up with your bank if it exceeds one week.
Warnings and Scams to Avoid
Protecting your BVN is critical, as it is the key to your financial identity. Be vigilant against these common Nigerian scams:
- Fake Online Portals & Agents: Never input your BVN on websites or links sent via SMS, email, or WhatsApp claiming to offer “quick BVN correction.” The only legitimate portals are your bank’s official website or app. Avoid roadside agents or cyber café operators who promise to handle the process for you for an extra fee; they can steal your data.
- Phone Call & WhatsApp Scams: Fraudsters may call posing as bank or NIBSS officials, claiming your BVN is “blocked” and asking for your details and OTP to “unlock” it. No legitimate bank will ever call to ask for your full BVN, PIN, or OTP. Hang up and contact your bank directly using the number on your debit card.
- Overcharging: As stated, the fee is around ₦1,020. Anyone demanding thousands of Naira is exploiting you. Always get an official bank receipt for any payment made.
Your BVN details should only be updated in person at your bank branch or through your bank’s verified digital channels after you have initiated the login yourself.
Acceptance, Use and Next Steps
Once your BVN details are successfully corrected, the update is accepted universally across the Nigerian financial system. Your corrected information will reflect in all commercial banks, microfinance banks, and other financial institutions where your BVN is linked. It is also recognized for processes like SIM card registration with the NCC, tax identification with the FIRS, and passport applications where BVN verification is used for identity validation.
Your immediate next step should be to verify the update independently. Dial *565*0# and check the details. Then, log into two or three of your different bank apps or visit their USSD menus to confirm synchronization. This ensures no account is left with the old, erroneous data.
A key limitation to understand is that a BVN is not a replacement for your National Identification Number (NIN). While your corrected BVN is valid for financial purposes, you must also ensure your details with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) are accurate, especially for international travel or processes strictly requiring the NIN. Consider this correction as one part of harmonizing your official identity records in Nigeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I correct my BVN details online without going to the bank?
For simple updates like a phone number, some bank apps (e.g., Zenith, Access) may allow it. However, for critical changes to your name, date of birth, or gender, you must visit your bank branch in person with original supporting documents. There is no standalone public portal on the NIBSS website for self-service correction of all details.
How long does BVN correction take in Nigeria?
After submission at your bank, the update typically takes 24 to 72 hours to process. However, due to network issues or the need for backend verification, it can sometimes take up to 5 to 7 working days to fully reflect across all your linked bank accounts. Complex corrections like name changes often take longer.
What if I don’t have any of the valid IDs for a name change?
If you lack a passport or driver’s license, you must obtain a sworn affidavit from a Nigerian court and, for stronger proof, publish the name change in a national newspaper. Present both documents to your bank. This is a legally accepted process for name alterations within the Nigerian system.
Can I change my BVN date of birth with just an affidavit?
No. An affidavit alone is frequently rejected for Date of Birth correction. Banks require a document issued around your time of birth. You need an original Birth Certificate from the NPC, a baptismal card, or a formal Declaration of Age from a court. Start by applying for your birth certificate at the National Population Commission office.
Why do my other banks still show the wrong details after correction?
This is a synchronization delay. The central NIBSS database updates first, but it takes time for individual banks to pull the new data. Allow 5-7 working days. If the error persists, visit the specific bank branch still showing the mistake and request they manually refresh their records from the central BVN database.
Is there a way to speed up the BVN correction process?
No. There is no official “express” service. Anyone offering to speed it up for an extra fee is likely scamming you. The process follows a fixed verification queue. The best way to avoid delays is to submit a complete, error-free application with all required documents at your bank branch.
What is the difference between BVN correction and NIN update?
They are separate processes with different databases. BVN correction updates your financial identity with banks via NIBSS. A NIN update changes your national identity with the NIMC. You must correct both separately if there are errors, though many institutions now require both numbers to be harmonized.
Can someone else correct my BVN details for me?
No. BVN correction requires in-person biometric verification (fingerprint capture). You must be physically present at the bank. No third party, not even a family member, can legally complete this process on your behalf due to the stringent security requirements.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes and is based on the publicly available guidelines from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS). Banking procedures and fees are subject to change. For the most current and official instructions, please contact your bank directly or visit the official NIBSS website. The author is not liable for any losses resulting from actions taken based on this content.