If you live in Nigeria, you’ve probably had to link your National Identification Number (NIN) to your SIM card before. It is now required to provide seamless access to mobile services, and if you have not done so yet, your connection may already be at risk of being banned. Don’t worry, though—I’ve been there, and the process is far easier than most people believe. In this post, I’ll show you how to resolve all your NIN linking issues on MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile lines in 2024. Let us get your phone service back on track.
By the end of this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to connect your NIN to all of Nigeria’s major networks. Whether you use MTN, Glo, Airtel, or 9mobile, I’ll walk you through practical measures you can take from the comfort of your own home.
What Is NIN, and Why Is It Important?
Before we get into the steps, let’s define NIN. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) assigns each Nigerian citizen and lawful resident an 11-digit National Identification Number (NIN). It is a unique identification that is used to verify your identity across numerous government and banking sites. The Nigerian government has mandated that all mobile numbers be linked to the user’s NIN for security concerns, and refusal to do so may result in your line being blocked from making calls or utilizing other services.
This effort began with the goal of combating illegal activities such as identity fraud, but it has since evolved into a critical step in modernizing Nigerian digital infrastructure. According to a National Communications Commission (NCC) study, more than 90 million NINs will be linked to mobile SIM cards by 2024.
How to Link Your NIN With MTN
If you’re an MTN user, there are a couple of simple ways to link your NIN:
#1. USSD Code Method
You may connect your NIN to your MTN number using USSD by calling *785*Your NIN# from your phone. You’ll get a confirmation message shortly afterward.
#2. Through the MTN website
Another option for linking your NIN is through MTN’s NIN portal. Visit the official MTN website, enter your phone number, and then follow the instructions to link your NIN.
#3. MTN NIN App
MTN now has a NIN connecting app that lets you to perform the process directly from your smartphone. Simply download the MTN NIN App to your mobile, provide the required information, and submit.
#4. MTN Centers
If you prefer, you can walk into any MTN office or certified facility with your NIN slip and phone number, and the staff will guide you through the process.
How To Link Your NIN with Glo
For Glo users, here’s how you link your NIN.
#1. USSD Code Method
To link your NIN to your Glo line, dial *109*Your NIN#. You’ll get a confirmation message after it’s successfully linked.
#2. Glo’s website
You can also visit Glo’s website to use their NIN connecting facility. Simply enter your phone number and NIN, then click submit.
#3. GloWorld Offices
If you’re not tech-savvy, simply go to a GloWorld service center near you. You will need to provide your NIN slip or card, and the personnel will connect your information to your line for free.
How to Link Your NIN With Airtel
Airtel also makes the process simple. Here is how you link your NIN:
#1. USSD Code Method
To link your NIN via USSD, dial 121*1# and follow the directions. When prompted, enter your NIN; you will then receive a confirmation message.
#2. Airtel Website
Visit Airtel’s official website, navigate to the NIN connection section, and enter your information to connect your NIN to your Airtel line.
#3. My Airtel App
The MyAirtel App also lets you link your NIN without leaving your house. Download the app, log in, then select the NIN connecting option.
#4. Walk-In Service
Alternatively, you can visit any Airtel service center with your NIN slip and Airtel number to get help from their customer support.
How to Link Your NIN with 9Mobile
For 9Mobile users, you can link your NIN as follows:
#1. USSD Code Method
Dial *200*8# on your phone and enter your NIN. Once the process is complete, you will receive a confirmation.
#2. 9Mobile Website
To link your NIN and phone number, go to the 9mobile NIN page and enter both.
#3. 9mobile Outlets
As with other networks, you can visit any 9Mobile experience center with your NIN slip and they will attach your details on the spot.
What If My NIN Isn’t Linked to My Phone Number?
If your NIN is not linked, you may experience service disruption. Your SIM card may be prohibited from making calls, sending texts, or accessing data services. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has made it mandatory, and mobile network operators must comply with the rules.
What to Do If Your Line is Blocked Due to NIN Linking Issues
If your line has been blocked due to NIN linking issues, don’t worry—it can be fixed with a few steps. Here’s what to do if you’re in this situation:
#1. Check that Your NIN is Correctly Linked
First, make sure your NIN is correctly linked to your line. Sometimes the link did not go through successfully, or there was an issue in the procedure. To verify your NIN status, dial the network’s USSD code.
Dial 785Your NIN# for MTN, 1211# for Airtel, 109Your NIN# for Glo, and 2008# for 9Mobile.
If the confirmation notification indicates that your NIN is not linked, continue to the next step.
#2. Re-link your NIN through USSD, website, or app
If your NIN was not correctly linked, you can attempt re-linking it via network-specific techniques like USSD codes, network apps, or websites. Here’s how.
- MTN: Dial *785*Your NIN#, download the MTN NIN App, or access the MTN NIN portal via their website.
- Airtel: Dial *121*1#, open the MyAirtel App, or go to their NIN site.
- Glo: Dial *109*Your NIN# or use Glo’s NIN gateway on their website.
- 9mobile: dial *2008# or go to their NIN portal.
If the NIN link is successful, your service should be restored within a few hours.
If your line remains blocked after re-linking, you may need to manually reconnect. To resolve the issue, contact your network provider’s customer support center or an authorized agent. Bring along the following:
- Please provide your NIN slip or card.
- A valid ID (such as a national ID card, voter’s card, passport, or driver’s license).
- The SIM card connected to the blocked line.
A customer care specialist will assist you in connecting your NIN to your SIM and resolving any issues, and your line should be unblocked within 24 to 48 hours.
#4. Contact NIMC to Verify Your NIN
If your NIN has been detected or deemed invalid, you may need to visit a NIMC office or contact them via their self-service portal to correct any mistakes in your NIN information. Make sure your NIN is valid and up to date. Once your NIN has been confirmed, you can reconnect it to your network.
#5. Contact Customer Care for Assistance
If you are unable to visit a physical store, contact your network’s customer service for remote assistance. Every supplier has a helpline:
- MTN: 180
- Airtel: 111
- Glo: 121
- 9mobile: 200
They can walk you through the steps needed to repair the problem, and in some circumstances, they may be able to reactivate your line remotely once the NIN is properly attached.
#6. Re-activate using online portals
Most telecom carriers allow you to submit your NIN rectification or activation request online. Visit their website, log in to your account, and follow the procedures to resolve NIN-related blocked lines. Submit your NIN, ID information, and other necessary papers.
#7. Wait for Re-activation
Once you’ve resolved the issue, it may take up to 48 hours for your line to be reopened. During this time, avoid re-linking to avoid extra delays in completing your request.
Can I Link Multiple SIM Cards to One NIN?
Yes! The good thing is that you can link many SIM cards to the same NIN. Whether you have various lines for work, personal use, or different networks, each may be linked to your unique NIN.
Key Takeaways
- NIN linkage is required in Nigeria for all mobile network customers. Failure to link your NIN may result in SIM deactivation.
- There are various options for linking your NIN, including USSD, web portals, and mobile apps.
- You do not need a unique NIN for each SIM card.
- Linking your NIN ensures continuous mobile services, such as calls, texting, and data.
- The procedure is quick and may usually be completed without leaving your house.
Conclusion
In 2024, attaching your NIN to your MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile lines will be easier than ever, thanks to the networks’ various techniques. From USSD codes to mobile apps, the alternatives allow you to finish the process swiftly and without causing service delays. With more than 90 million Nigerians now connected, this stage is critical for seamless communication.
So, have you linked your NIN already, or are you still waiting?
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