Why and How to Link NIN to Your MTN, Airtel, or Glo Number: Essential Guide

How to link NIN to Airtel
Linking your National Identification Number (NIN) to your mobile number is a requirement set by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), aiming to enhance security and curb fraudulent activities. If you are unsure about how to link your NIN to mobile numbers of MTN, Airtel, or Glo, this guide will provide detailed step-by-step instructions for each network.​
Why Is It Important to Link Your NIN to Your Mobile Number?​
The Nigerian government mandates the linking of NIN to mobile numbers for the purpose of identity verification and security. Failure to comply with this regulation may result in your mobile number being blocked or restricted. Therefore, to maintain smooth communication, it is essential to link your NIN to your mobile number.​

How to Link Your NIN to an MTN Mobile Number​

  1. Via USSD Code: Dial *785# on your MTN phone. When prompted, enter your 11-digit NIN. After confirming your submission, you will receive a success notification.​
  1. Via SMS: Send an SMS in the format “NIN [Your NIN]” to 785. For example: NIN 12345678901.​
  1. Via MTN NIN Portal: Visit the MTN NIN portal: https://nin.mtnonline.com. Enter your mobile number and NIN. After submitting the form, wait for a confirmation SMS.​
  1. Via MTN App: Download and log in to the MyMTN app. Navigate to the “NIN Linking” option and provide your NIN. Confirm and submit.​

How to Link Your NIN to an Airtel Mobile Number​

  1. Via USSD Code: Dial 1211# on your Airtel phone. Follow the prompts and enter your 11-digit NIN. After submission, wait for a confirmation message.​
  1. Via Airtel NIN Portal: Visit the Airtel NIN portal: https://www.airtel.com.ng/nin. Enter your mobile number and NIN. Complete the captcha verification and submit.​
  1. Via SMS: Send an SMS in the format “NIN [Your NIN]” to 121. For example: NIN 12345678901.​
  1. Via Airtel App: Open the Airtel Thanks app. Go to the NIN linking section and enter your NIN. Confirm and submit.​
How to Link Your NIN to a Glo Mobile Number​
  1. Via USSD Code: Dial *109# on your Glo phone. Enter your NIN and follow the instructions. After confirmation, wait for a success message.​
  1. Via SMS: Send an SMS in the format “UPDATENIN [Your NIN]” to 109. For example: UPDATENIN 12345678901.​
  1. Via Glo NIN Portal: Visit the Glo NIN portal: https://www.gloworld.com/ng/nin. Enter your mobile number and NIN. Verify the details and submit.​
  1. Via Glo World App: Launch the Glo Cafe app. Navigate to the NIN linking section and provide your details. Submit and wait for confirmation.​

What to Do If You Don’t Have a NIN?​

If you don’t have a NIN, you can go to the nearest National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) enrollment center to register. Make sure to bring valid identification documents, such as a voter’s card or driver’s license, to complete the registration process.​
What Happens If You Don’t Link Your NIN to Your Mobile Number?​
Failing to link your NIN to your mobile number may lead to the following consequences:​
  • Restrictions on making outgoing calls and sending messages.​
  • Suspension of your mobile number.​
  • Possible inability to access essential services associated with the mobile number.​

Relevant References​

A. “NCC Regulations on NIN Linking”, Nigerian Communications Commission, 2023. [Read Here]​
B. “How to Link NIN to MTN Numbers”, TechCabal, 2023. [Read Here]​
C. “Why Linking Your NIN Is Important”, BusinessDay NG, 2023. [Read Here]​
Keywords: NIN linking to mobile number, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), MTN NIN linking, Airtel NIN linking, Glo NIN linking, NIN registration, consequences of not linking NIN, NIN linking guide
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