First Bank Nigeria USSD Codes for Transfers, Airtime, Data & More

by

Last verified: September 30, 2025
Disclaimer: nigeriaussdcodes.com is an independent help site. We are not First Bank. Codes and services may change at any time. We verify against official sources where possible.

Why First Bank USSD Codes Matter

First Bank of Nigeria, founded in 1894, is the oldest commercial bank in the country and one of the largest in West Africa. With a presence in all 36 states, thousands of employees, and millions of customers, it has become a household name.

In today’s fast-moving world, however, walking into a branch is no longer practical for many Nigerians. Long queues, traffic, and unpredictable working hours make branch banking stressful. Mobile apps solve part of this problem, but they still require internet and smartphones. For millions of Nigerians—especially in rural areas where internet access is limited—the USSD code *894# bridges the gap.

USSD works on any phone, whether it’s a simple Nokia “torchlight” device or the latest Android or iPhone. It requires no data, responds within seconds, and is available 24/7. Whether you are a trader in Kano checking your balance before restocking goods, a student in Lagos buying data before an online lecture, or a parent in Enugu sending school fees instantly, USSD keeps you connected to your money.

In 2025, as Nigeria continues to push for financial inclusion, First Bank’s Quick Banking via *894# remains one of the most accessible tools for daily financial transactions.

  • Transfer money to First Bank or other banks.

  • Buy airtime and data for yourself or others.

  • Check account balances instantly.

  • Pay bills like electricity, TV subscriptions, or water.

  • Generate cardless withdrawal codes for ATMs.

  • Manage PINs and reset security details.

In a country where internet can be expensive or unreliable, USSD ensures that banking remains available

Key takeaways

  • Main USSD code: *894# (FirstBank Quick Banking).
  • Balance check: *894*00#.
  • Transfer money: *894*Amount*AccountNumber#.
  • Airtime for self: *894*Amount#.
  • Airtime for others: *894*Amount*RecipientNumber#.
  • Data purchase: Via *894# menu → Data.
  • Bill payments: Use *894# → Pay Bills.
  • Cardless withdrawal: *894*0#.
  • PIN reset/change: Access via *894# menu → Security.
Action USSD Code Notes
Register/Activate USSD *894# Follow prompts to activate with BVN/Debit card.
Check Balance *894*00# Shows your available account balance.
Transfer Money *894*Amount*AccountNumber# For FirstBank and other banks (select destination bank).
Buy Airtime (Self) *894*Amount# Airtime instantly credited to your own line.
Buy Airtime (Others) *894*Amount*RecipientNumber# For friends/family on any network.
Buy Data *894# → Data Choose data bundle, amount deducted from your account.
Pay Bills *894# → Pay Bills DSTV, PHCN, Startimes, WAEC, etc.
Cardless Withdrawal *894*0# Generates Paycode for ATM withdrawals without a card.
Change/Reset PIN *894# → Security Update or reset your USSD PIN for security.

How to Register & Activate First Bank USSD

Before using *894#, you must activate your line:

  1. Dial *894# from your registered phone number.

  2. Enter your First Bank debit card number (the 16-digit PAN).

  3. Input your BVN (Bank Verification Number).

  4. Create a 5-digit transaction PIN.

  5. Confirm, and you’re ready to bank!

Note: Only numbers linked to your account can be used.

Checking Your Account Balance

The simplest code is *894*00#.

  • Dial the code.

  • Enter your 5-digit PIN.

  • You’ll see your account balance on the screen and via SMS.

Troubleshooting:

  • If it says “invalid PIN,” reset your PIN via *894#.

  • If no response, restart your phone or try later (network downtime).

How to Transfer Money

To First Bank accounts:

  • Dial: *894*Amount*AccountNumber#.

  • Example: *894*5000*1234567890#.

  • Select “First Bank” → confirm with your PIN.

To other banks:

  • Dial the same format, then select the receiving bank from the list.

Tips:

  • Always double-check account numbers.

  • Be mindful of daily transfer limits (usually ₦100,000–₦500,000 depending on account type).

Airtime & Data Purchase

Airtime for self:

  • Dial *894*Amount#.

  • Example: *894*500# tops up ₦500 on your line.

Airtime for others:

  • Dial *894*Amount*RecipientNumber#.

  • Example: *894*200*08031234567#.

Data:

  • Dial *894# → Select “Data.”

  • Choose a bundle and confirm with your PIN.

Paying Bills

You can settle everyday bills directly:

  • Dial *894#.

  • Select “Pay Bills.”

  • Choose service (DSTV, Startimes, PHCN, etc.).

  • Enter customer ID or meter number.

  • Confirm payment with your PIN.

Cardless Withdrawal

Forgot your ATM card? Use Paycode:

  1. Dial *894*0#.

  2. Generate a Paycode with your PIN.

  3. Visit any First Bank ATM.

  4. Select “Cardless Withdrawal” → enter Paycode.

  5. Collect your cash.

Security: PIN Reset & Safety Tips

  • Always set a strong 5-digit PIN.

  • If compromised, reset via *894# → “Security.”

  • Never share your PIN over phone calls or SMS.

  • If your SIM is lost, contact the bank immediately.

Troubleshooting Common USSD Problems

  1. Invalid MMI / Connection Error

    • Ensure you’re dialing from your registered SIM.

    • Toggle Airplane Mode or restart your phone.

  2. Session Timed Out

    • Respond quickly (sessions expire in ~20 sec).

    • Try during off-peak hours.

  3. Transfer Fails but Money Deducted

    • Check if it reflects later.

    • If not, call First Bank support with the transaction ID.

  4. USSD Code Not Working

    • Ensure SIM is active and linked to account.

    • Contact bank if problem persists.

FAQs

Q1: What is the First Bank USSD code?
The main code is *894#, known as Quick Banking.

Q2: Do I need internet?
No, it works offline.

Q3: Can I use USSD abroad?
Yes, if roaming is active. Charges may apply.

Q4: What is the transfer limit?
Typically ₦100,000 daily (individual accounts).

Q5: Is there a fee for transfers?
Yes, standard interbank transfer charges apply.

Q6: Can I buy data with USSD?
Yes, via *894# → Data.

Q7: How do I reset my PIN?
Dial *894# → Security → Reset PIN.

Q8: What happens if I lose my SIM?
Report to the bank immediately to block access.

Q9: Can I pay PHCN bills?
Yes, through the Pay Bills option.

Q10: Is USSD secure?
Yes, if you protect your PIN. Avoid public networks when possible.

Conclusion

First Bank’s *894# Quick Banking service is one of the most powerful financial tools in Nigeria. It allows anyone—whether in cities or remote villages—to manage money without internet, smartphones, or long queues.

From checking balances and transferring funds to paying bills, buying airtime, or even withdrawing without a card, the service empowers millions of Nigerians every day.

As digital banking continues to grow, USSD remains vital because it is simple, accessible, and inclusive. While mobile apps serve urban customers, USSD ensures no Nigerian is left behind in the financial system.

If you encounter challenges, First Bank’s customer service on 01-9052326, *300, or <a href=”https://firstbanknigeria.com” target=”_blank”>firstbanknigeria.com</a> is always available. Bookmark this guide and you’ll never forget a code again.

Leave a Comment