Linking your National Identification Number (NIN) to your MTN number is a important process that helps you comply with government regulations and ensures uninterrupted services on your line.
The Nigerian government, through the National Communications Commission (NCC), has made it mandatory for all citizens and residents to link their NIN to their mobile phone numbers. This directive is aimed at improving security, reducing identity theft, and ensuring accurate identification of phone users. For MTN subscribers, this process can be completed in a few simple steps, either through SMS, the MyMTN app, or online via the MTN NIN portal.
If you haven’t linked your NIN yet, you may experience service disruptions or disconnections as your line could be blocked after the stipulated deadline.
In this post, we will explain different ways to link your NIN to your MTN number, USSD code to link NIN to MTN, how to check if the linkage was successful, and what to do if you encounter any issues during the process.
Why Link Your NIN to MTN?
Linking your NIN to your MTN line isn’t just a formality; it’s essential for various reasons:
Compliance with Regulations: The Nigerian government mandates that all mobile phone users link their NIN to their SIM cards to improve national security and reduce fraud.
Access to Services: Many services, including banking and government-related services, require NIN verification. By linking your NIN to your MTN line, you ensure uninterrupted access to these services.
What You’ll Need
Before you start the process, make sure you have the following:
- Your 11-digit NIN.
- The MTN phone number you want to link.
- Access to a phone or internet connection, depending on the method you choose.
Steps on How to Link NIN to MTN Number
This step-by-step guide provides everything you need to know about linking your NIN to your MTN line.
1. USSD Code to Link NIN to MTN Number
This is the easiest and quickest way to link your NIN to your MTN number. All you need is a mobile phone with an active MTN SIM card.
Steps:
- Dial *785# on your phone.
- Enter your 11-digit NIN when prompted.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.
Once done, you will receive a confirmation message letting you know if the linking was successful or not. MTN NIN code method is especially helpful if you don’t have internet access.
2. Link NIN to MTN Number Online
If you prefer handling things online, MTN has a dedicated portal where you can link your NIN.
Steps:
- Visit the MTN NIN Linking Portal.
- Enter your details, including your phone number, NIN, and email address.
- Submit the form and wait for a confirmation message.
This method is ideal for those who prefer a visual interface and don’t mind spending a few minutes on the internet.
3. How to Link NIN to MTN Number via SMS
Another straightforward option is to link your NIN to your MTN line via SMS. This is perfect if you prefer texting.
Steps:
- Open your SMS app.
- Send an SMS in this format:
NIN [Your NIN]to 785.- Example:
NIN 12345678901and send to 785.
- Example:
- Wait for a confirmation message.
The SMS method is just as fast as the USSD method and works well for those who find texting more convenient.
4. Link NIN to MTN via Mobile App
For tech-savvy users, MTN’s mobile app provides a smooth way to link your NIN.
Steps:
- Download the myMTN App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Open the app and navigate to the “NIN Submission” option.
- Enter your NIN and follow the prompts to complete the process.
The app method is best for users who are comfortable navigating mobile apps and enjoy keeping all their services in one place.
5. Linking NIN to MTN In-Person
If you prefer face-to-face interaction, you can link your NIN by visiting any MTN store.
Steps:
- Bring your NIN and a valid ID to the nearest MTN service center.
- A customer service representative will assist you in completing the process.
This method is reliable for those who want personalized assistance or are unsure about using online or mobile methods.
How to Retrieve Your NIN if You’ve Lost It
If you’ve misplaced your NIN or can’t remember it, you can easily retrieve it using your MTN SIM card.
Steps:
- Dial *346# on your MTN line.
- Choose the option to retrieve your NIN.
- Your NIN will be displayed on your phone screen (note that there is a small fee of ₦20 for this service).
What Happens If You Don’t Link Your NIN to MTN?
Failure to link your NIN to your MTN line could result in your SIM card being blocked, meaning you will no longer be able to make calls, send texts, or access mobile data. To avoid this, it’s best to complete the process as soon as possible.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Incorrect NIN: Double-check your NIN before submitting it. Entering the wrong number will result in a failed linking process.
- Network Issues: If you experience delays in receiving a confirmation message, try again at a later time or use another method (USSD, SMS, etc.).
- Biometric Verification Issues: Ensure your biometric details are up-to-date with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to avoid complications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What documents do I need to link my NIN to my MTN line?
You don’t need any documents to link your NIN to your MTN line. All you need is your 11-digit NIN and your MTN phone number.
Q2. Why is it mandatory to link my NIN to my MTN line?
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has mandated that all telecom subscribers must link their NIN to their phone numbers. This helps in curbing fraud, enhancing national security, and ensuring that each mobile number is connected to a verified identity.
Q3. What happens if I don’t link my NIN to my MTN line?
If you don’t link your NIN to your MTN line, your phone number may be deactivated, which will prevent you from making calls, sending texts, or using mobile data services.
Q4. Can I link my NIN to more than one MTN line?
Yes, you can link your NIN to more than one MTN line. This is particularly useful for people who have multiple SIM cards under different purposes, such as personal and business use.
Q5. Can I link my NIN to an MTN line if I am not the owner of the line?
No, each MTN line must be linked to the NIN of the person who owns the line. Using someone else’s NIN for this process is not allowed.
Q6. Can I link my NIN to my MTN line if I am not currently in Nigeria?
Yes, you can link your NIN to your MTN line from anywhere in the world, as long as you have access to the internet to use the MTN NIN Self-Service Portal.
Q7. How can I check if my NIN is successfully linked to my MTN line?
To check if your NIN is linked to your MTN line, dial *785# on your MTN number. This will display the status of your NIN linkage.
Q8. What is the code to link NIN to MTN
The code to link your NIN to your MTN line is *785#. Simply dial *785# on your MTN number, follow the on-screen prompts, and enter your 11-digit NIN when requested. Once you complete the process, you will receive a confirmation message indicating whether the linking was successful.
Final Thoughts
Linking your NIN to your MTN line is a simple task that helps keep your mobile service active and secure. Whether you prefer using the USSD code to link NIN to MTN, online, via SMS, or visiting an MTN store, you have several options to complete the process. With this comprehensive guide, you should be well on your way to successfully linking your NIN and avoiding any disruptions in your service.
Take action now and enjoy uninterrupted access to essential services, from banking to government transactions, by linking your NIN to your MTN number today.
