Running out of airtime can be frustrating, but you can easily share credit with friends and family. This complete guide provides the proven methods and official codes for how to transfer airtime to another number on every major Nigerian network.
Whether you’re helping someone in an emergency or simply gifting data talktime, the process is quick and secure. We break down the steps for MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, including requirements, charges, and limits. Follow our expert tips to master airtime transfer in Nigeria today.
Requirements / What You Need
Before you initiate any airtime transfer, ensure you have the following ready. This preparation saves you time and prevents failed transactions, especially with unstable network connections common in areas like Lagos or Port Harcourt.
- An Active SIM Card: Your line must be active and not barred. The SIM must be in the phone you are using to dial the code.
- Sufficient Airtime Balance: You need enough credit to cover both the amount you wish to send and the transfer fee. Fees range from ₦10 to ₦50 depending on your network.
- The Correct Recipient Number: Double-check the 11-digit Nigerian number you are sending to. A mistake means you’ve gifted a stranger.
- Your Mobile Phone PIN: For some networks like MTN, you must have set up and remember your Mobile Money PIN (MMPIN). This is a 4-digit security PIN, not your bank PIN or SIM PIN.
- Network Stability: If you have poor signal, consider trying later or moving to a better location. Cyber cafés are not needed for this; it’s done directly from your phone.
A key point Nigerians often miss is the minimum balance requirement. You cannot transfer your last credit; you must leave a small residual balance in your account after the transaction. Also, newly recharged lines may have a waiting period (often 5-10 minutes) before the credit is transferable.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Choose Your Network’s Correct USSD Code
Dial the specific code for your network from your phone’s dialer. Using the wrong code is a common reason for failure. The standard codes are: *606# for MTN, *432# for Airtel, *131*Phone Number*Amount# for Glo, and *223*Phone Number*Amount# for 9mobile. Ensure you have a strong signal before dialing to avoid “Session Expired” errors.
Step 2: Navigate the USSD Menu & Enter Details
After dialing, a menu will pop up on your screen. Follow the prompts, which typically ask you to:
– Select “Airtime Transfer” or “Share Airtime.”
– Enter the 11-digit recipient’s phone number carefully.
– Enter the amount you wish to send (e.g., 500 for ₦500). Note that networks have minimum (often ₦50) and maximum (e.g., ₦5,000) limits per transaction.
Step 3: Confirm Transaction Details
The USSD portal will display a summary screen showing the recipient’s number, the amount, and the transfer fee. This is your last chance to check for errors. A common Nigerian issue is rushing and mistyping the number. Verify every digit matches the intended recipient.
Step 4: Authorize with Your PIN
For networks like MTN and Airtel, you will be prompted to enter your 4-digit Mobile PIN (MMPIN) to authorize the transfer. This is a critical security step. If you’ve forgotten your PIN, you’ll need to reset it via your network’s USSD banking menu, which can cause delays.
Step 5: Wait for Confirmation Messages
After entering your PIN, wait for two SMS alerts. The first is a debit alert from your network confirming the deduction (amount + fee). The second is a confirmation that the transfer to the other number was successful. Do not assume it’s done until you get both messages, as network glitches can sometimes occur.
Alternative Methods
Beyond USSD codes, Nigerians have other reliable ways to transfer airtime, useful when you face network issues or need to send credit from abroad.
Using Mobile Banking Apps: Most Nigerian bank apps like GTWorld (GTBank), AccessMore, or Zenith Bank have a “Buy Airtime” feature where you can purchase credit directly for any number. This is ideal if your own airtime balance is low but you have bank funds. You simply select the recipient’s network, input their number, and pay from your account. This method is often better for larger amounts or when gifting from states like Abuja or Rivers where internet banking is prevalent.
Third-Party Platforms: Services like Quickteller or VTU.ng allow you to top up any number online using debit cards or bank transfer. These are excellent alternatives if USSD menus are down or if you are purchasing airtime for someone as a gift from outside Nigeria. They provide immediate delivery and email receipts.
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem: “Transaction Failed” or “Session Expired” Error
This is often caused by poor network congestion, especially during peak hours in Lagos or on campuses. Sometimes, the network’s USSD portal is temporarily down.
Solution: First, wait 5-10 minutes and try again. Ensure you have strong signal bars. If it persists, switch your phone’s network mode from 4G/5G to 3G, as USSD sometimes runs more reliably on older bands. As a last resort, use an alternative method like your bank app.
Problem: “Invalid PIN” or “PIN Not Set” Message
Many Nigerians confuse their bank PIN with their Mobile Money PIN (MMPIN) required for transfers on MTN and Airtel. If you’ve never used services like airtime transfer or data sharing, your MMPIN may not be set up.
Solution: To set or reset your MMPIN, dial your network’s dedicated code. For MTN, dial *906*0000*0000# (where the zeros are your new PIN). For Airtel, it’s often via the *432# menu. Follow the prompts to create a new 4-digit PIN.
Problem: Recipient Did Not Get the Airtime Despite Your Debit Alert
You received an SMS that your money was deducted, but the other person claims they didn’t get it. This is a delayed posting issue, common during network glitches.
Solution: Do not panic. First, ask the recipient to check their balance by dialing *310# for a detailed summary. The credit usually posts within 5-15 minutes. If after 30 minutes it’s still not reflected, contact your network’s customer care (e.g., 180 for MTN) with the transaction reference from your debit SMS. They can trace and complete the transaction.
Problem: “Minimum Balance Rule” Preventing Transfer
You have ₦200 and want to send ₦150, but the system won’t allow it. Networks enforce a rule that you must leave a residual balance (e.g., ₦20-₦50) in your account.
Solution: You cannot bypass this rule via USSD. Calculate the total cost (amount + fee) and ensure your balance exceeds that total by at least ₦50. To send ₦150 with a ₦10 fee, you need a balance of at least ₦210.
Fees, Costs and Timeline
Transferring airtime in Nigeria incurs a small service fee, which varies by network and is regulated by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). The standard official fee is ₦10 for MTN and 9mobile, while Airtel and Glo typically charge ₦15 to ₦20 per transaction. These fees are automatically deducted alongside the amount you are sending.
Be cautious of third-party agents or cyber cafés in states like Kano or Enugu who may overcharge for this service, claiming a “processing fee.” The entire process should only cost you the official network fee. The transfer itself is instantaneous under normal network conditions.
However, during peak periods or network congestion, delays of 2-5 minutes are common. If the recipient does not receive the credit within 15 minutes, you should contact your network’s customer care with your transaction reference.
Warnings and Scams to Avoid
- Avoid “Airtime Transfer Agents”: Be wary of individuals, especially in motor parks or markets, who offer to “help” you transfer airtime for a fee. They often overcharge or use the opportunity to clone your SIM by handling your phone.
- Never Share Your PIN or OTP: No legitimate network will call or SMS you asking for your Mobile Money PIN (MMPIN) or a One-Time Password (OTP) to “complete a transfer.” This is a common phishing scam.
- Beware of Fake USSD Codes & Links: Scammers circulate fake codes (e.g., *144*Number#) or WhatsApp messages with links claiming to be “new, cheaper transfer methods.” Only use the official codes provided in this guide or on your network’s website.
- Verify “Please Send Me Airtime” Messages: A common scam involves a message from a number pretending to be a friend or family member in urgent need. Always call the person directly on a known number to confirm before sending any credit.
Acceptance, Use and Next Steps
Transferred airtime is universally accepted across Nigeria. The recipient can use the credit for any standard purpose: making calls, sending SMS, purchasing data bundles, or subscribing to value-added services like caller tunes. It functions exactly like airtime they recharged themselves.
However, understand its key limitations. Transferred airtime cannot be withdrawn as cash or used for certain specific bill payments that require direct bank debit. It also cannot typically be re-transferred to a third number; the recipient can only use it directly.
Your next step should be to save the official USSD codes for your primary network in your phone’s notes. Practice with a small amount (e.g., ₦50) to a trusted family member’s number to familiarize yourself with the process. For larger, regular support, consider using direct bank transfers or mobile money apps like Opay or Moniepoint, as these offer more flexibility and sometimes lower costs for sending funds that can be used for airtime or other needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer airtime from MTN to Glo?
No, you cannot transfer airtime directly between different networks in Nigeria. Airtime transfer, or “share and sell,” is an intra-network service. You can only send credit from an MTN line to another MTN number, from Glo to Glo, and so on. To help someone on a different network, you would need to use a bank app or third-party VTU platform to buy airtime specifically for their network.
Is there a daily limit on how much airtime I can transfer?
Yes, all Nigerian networks impose daily transaction limits for security. For example, MTN’s limit is often ₦5,000 per transaction, with a daily cumulative limit that can range from ₦10,000 to ₦25,000 depending on your account tier. These limits are set by your telecom provider and are not adjustable by the user.
Why is my transferred airtime not showing in the recipient’s balance?
First, ask them to check their balance via the correct code (e.g., *310#). If it’s still not there, it’s likely a network delay, common during peak hours. Wait 10-15 minutes. If the issue persists, contact your network’s customer care (e.g., dial 180 for MTN) with the transaction reference from your debit SMS. They can trace and resolve the pending transaction.
Can I reverse an airtime transfer if I sent it to the wrong number?
Unfortunately, airtime transfers are instantaneous and irreversible once completed. The telecom operators treat it like giving someone physical cash. This is why verifying the recipient’s 11-digit number before confirming is crucial. If you send to a wrong number, you can only appeal to the recipient’s goodwill to send it back.
Do I need to register my SIM for BVN to transfer airtime?
No, you do not need to link your SIM to your Bank Verification Number (BVN) specifically for airtime transfers. However, your SIM must be fully registered with your NIN (National Identification Number) as mandated by NCC policy. An active, properly registered line is the primary requirement.
Is there a charge for receiving airtime in Nigeria?
No, there is absolutely no charge for receiving airtime. The recipient gets the full amount you sent, and only you, the sender, bear the small network transfer fee (₦10-₦20). Anyone asking the recipient to pay a fee to “claim” or “activate” transferred airtime is running a scam.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available network procedures and codes as of time of publishing. Telecom operator policies, fees, and USSD codes are subject to change by the respective service providers (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile). Always confirm the current process via your network’s official customer care channels or website before proceeding. We are not affiliated with any telecommunications company or regulatory body.