Last Updated: November 2025
Disclaimer: nigeriaussdcodes.com is an independent educational site. We are not affiliated with MTN or the NCC. All codes are verified through official sources and field tests.
Why MTN USSD Codes Still Matter
MTN Nigeria serves over 80 million subscribers. Even as apps and e-wallets grow, USSD codes remain the quickest, data-free way to recharge, buy data, link NIN, or borrow airtime.
USSD works without internet access and on every phone — making it vital for both smartphone and feature-phone users.
This 2025 guide lists every current MTN code, explains its purpose, and shares tips to solve common errors like “invalid MMI code” or “session timed out.”
Understanding the NCC Harmonization Policy
In 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) standardized the most-used telecom codes across all networks. That’s why you now dial:
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*310# for balance check
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311PIN# to recharge
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*312# for data
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*303# to borrow
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*305# to stop VAS
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*996# for NIN services
MTN has fully adopted these codes while keeping its own special shortcuts for extra features.
Complete List of MTN USSD Codes
| Category | Function | USSD Code | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance Check | Check main airtime balance | *310# | Unified across all networks |
| Recharge | Load airtime via card PIN | 311PIN# | Fast and secure |
| Data Bundles | Buy/renew data plans | *312# | Includes daily, weekly, monthly plans |
| Data Balance | Check remaining data | *323# / 3234# | Shows main + bonus bundles |
| Borrow Airtime or Data | XtraTime / XtraByte | *303# | Service fee applies |
| Share Airtime | MTN Share | 321RecipientAmountPIN# | Formerly “Share ’n Sell” |
| Stop VAS | Cancel subscriptions | *305# | Lists all active VAS |
| NIN Linking | Check/Link NIN | *785# | Direct from MTN |
| Customer Care | Call Centre | *300# | Unified NCC help desk |
| MTN Pulse | Join Pulse tariff plan | *406# | Youth-oriented rewards |
| MTN BetaTalk | Switch tariff plan | 1232*6# | Bonus on every recharge |
| Roaming | Activate roaming | 1234# | Check international rates |
| Caller Tune | Buy/remove tune | *410# | Optional entertainment service |
(HTML version of this table can be provided on request for easy WordPress insertion.)
Detailed Breakdown of Major Services
A. Checking Your Airtime Balance
Dial *310# → instant pop-up shows main and bonus balances.
If no response, toggle Airplane Mode or retry with stronger signal.
B. Recharging Your Line
Use 311PIN# (Example: 311123456789012345#).
If you receive “Invalid PIN,” re-check digits or contact support via *300#.
C. Buying and Managing Data
Dial *312# → choose from menu:
1 = Daily Plans 2 = Weekly 3 = Monthly 4 = Social Bundles 5 = YouTube Night
To cancel auto-renew: text “NO + Bundle Code” (e.g. NO104) to 312.
D. Borrowing Airtime or Data
*303# → select XtraTime or XtraByte → choose amount → confirm.
Repayment deducted automatically on next recharge.
E. Sharing Airtime Safely
Default PIN = 0000. Change with 3210000NEWPINNEWPIN#.
Then transfer: 321RecipientAmountPIN#.
Always confirm recipient before sending.
MTN Special Codes You Should Know
| Service | Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| MTN Rewards | *461# | Check loyalty points |
| MTN Data Gifting | 3121# | Send data to friends |
| MTN PAYG Toggle | 312200# (on) / 312201# (off) | Browse from airtime |
| MTN MoMo Agent | *502# | Access mobile money wallet |
| Call Me Back | 133Recipient# | Free SMS request for callback |
Common MTN USSD Errors and Fixes
| Error Message | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Invalid MMI Code | Wrong SIM slot or signal drop | Switch active SIM or restart phone |
| Session Timed Out | Slow response to menu | Dial again and reply fast |
| PIN Already Used | Duplicate recharge entry | Contact *300# with card serial |
| No Response | Network busy | Wait 30 seconds and retry |
MTN NIN Linking and Verification
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Dial *785# → Follow prompt to enter NIN.
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You’ll receive a confirmation SMS.
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If you prefer online, visit https://ninlinking.mtn.ng.
Always verify with *346# (from NIMC) to ensure your NIN is correctly linked.
Customer Support and Assistance
For help with any code or error:
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Dial *300# → Customer Care Menu.
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Visit the nearest MTN service centre.
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Use the official MTN app or Twitter handle @MTNNG.
Response time averages under 3 minutes via USSD help desk.
Troubleshooting Tips
Ensure SIM is properly registered.
Keep minimum airtime balance (₦ 10–₦ 20) for smooth sessions.
Restart phone weekly to clear cache delays.
Avoid re-dialing too quickly after timeouts.
Store favorite codes in Contacts for one-tap use.
Conclusion
USSD remains Nigeria’s most inclusive technology — zero data cost, instant execution, and available even in low-signal zones.
MTN’s continuous upgrade to faster gateways makes it the leader in reliable telecom services for 2025.
Bookmark this guide on nigeriaussdcodes.com to stay updated whenever MTN introduces new codes or NCC issues revisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main MTN USSD code for checking airtime balance?
Dial 310# to instantly see your main and bonus airtime balances. This is the new NCC-approved code that works on all phones and requires no data connection.
How do I recharge my MTN line with a card PIN?
Scratch the card and dial 311PIN#* then press the call button. You’ll receive a pop-up confirmation and SMS instantly. If you get “Invalid PIN,” check the digits or try again after 30 seconds.
What is the code to buy data on MTN in 2025?
Use 312# to see all data plans (daily, weekly, monthly, social, and YouTube bundles). You can also text 2 to 323 to check your current bundle balance.
How do I share airtime with friends on MTN?
Change your transfer PIN from 0000 to a new one with 3210000NEWPINNEWPIN#, then send airtime using **321RecipientNumberAmountPIN#**. Transfers are free and instant.
What is the code to borrow airtime or data from MTN?
Dial 303# and select either XtraTime (airtime) or XtraByte (data). Choose the amount you want and confirm. The borrowed amount plus a small service fee will be deducted from your next recharge.
How can I stop unwanted subscriptions or VAS deductions?
Dial 305# to see all active value-added services on your line. Follow the on-screen prompts to unsubscribe from any you don’t want. This is the official NCC harmonized “STOP” code.
What is the MTN code for linking my NIN?
Simply dial 785# and enter your 11-digit NIN when prompted. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS once it’s linked successfully. You can also visit ninlinking.mtn.ng for online submission.
Why do I see “Invalid MMI Code” when using MTN USSD?
This usually means your phone sent the request from the wrong SIM slot or you have a weak signal. Ensure the MTN SIM is active for voice calls, then retry after toggling Airplane Mode off and on.
Can I use MTN USSD codes while roaming outside Nigeria?
Yes, most codes like *310#, *311#, and *312# still work when roaming in countries with MTN partners. If they fail, use the MTN app or call +234 803 101 3000 for assistance.
How often does MTN update its USSD codes?
MTN follows NCC directives and updates codes whenever new harmonization rules are released. All current codes listed here were confirmed in November 2025. Bookmark * nigeriaussdcodes.com* for future updates.