Last Updated: November 2025
Disclaimer: nigeriaussdcodes.com is an independent informational platform. We are not affiliated with any bank listed here. All USSD codes and procedures were verified from official bank and NCC publications.*
Banking Made Simple Without Internet
Opening a bank account in Nigeria no longer requires visiting a branch or filling long paper forms. Thanks to USSD banking, you can now create a fully functional bank account in under five minutes — directly from your mobile phone, without internet access.
This service is a lifesaver for millions of Nigerians in rural areas or those using basic (button) phones. Whether you’re opening your first savings account or an extra wallet for daily expenses, you can start instantly using simple USSD codes provided by your bank.
In this 2025 updated guide, you’ll learn:
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What a USSD bank account is
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The requirements to open one
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Step-by-step codes for all major Nigerian banks
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How to upgrade or verify your account
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Limits, charges, and security tips
What Is a USSD Bank Account?
A USSD bank account (also called Tier 1 or Instant Account) is a mobile-based savings account that you open directly from your phone using a bank’s short code — no internet, smartphone, or paperwork needed.
Key Features:
Works on any phone (basic or smartphone)
Requires only a valid phone number (no BVN or ID initially)
Lets you receive money, send funds, and buy airtime instantly
Free to open — no maintenance or setup fee
You can later upgrade to a full account with BVN or ID
This innovation helps the unbanked and underbanked population in Nigeria access formal banking services easily.
Requirements to Open a USSD Bank Account
Before dialing the code, make sure you have:
A working phone number (MTN, GLO, Airtel, or 9mobile)
Basic personal information (name, date of birth)
No active DND restriction (disable if needed to receive SMS)
Optional: BVN (if you already have one; it helps upgrade instantly)
You do not need an ATM card, passport photo, or internet connection.
Step-by-Step: How to Open a Bank Account Using USSD
The process is similar across all Nigerian banks, though the codes differ slightly.
Step 1: Dial Your Bank’s Account Opening Code
Use the phone number you want to link to the new account, and dial any of the codes below:
| Bank | USSD Code to Open Account | Example Instruction |
|---|---|---|
| Access Bank | *901# |
Select “Open an Account” → Enter details → Confirm |
| GTBank (GTCO) | *737*0# |
Follow prompt → Create 4-digit PIN |
| First Bank | *894*0# |
Choose “Open Account” → Enter name, DOB |
| Zenith Bank | *966*0# |
Follow steps → Account number sent via SMS |
| UBA | *919# |
Select “Open Account” → Fill required fields |
| Fidelity Bank | *770*01# |
Enter first & last name → Confirm |
| FCMB | *329# |
Select “Open Account” → Input details |
| Union Bank | *826# |
Choose “Open Account” → Enter data |
| Polaris Bank | *833# |
Select “Open Account” → Follow prompts |
| Sterling Bank | *822# |
Pick “Open Account” → Create PIN |
| Wema Bank (ALAT Lite) | *945# |
Choose “Open Account” → Input info |
| Unity Bank | *7799# |
Select “Open Account” → Enter name |
| Keystone Bank | *7111# |
Follow on-screen setup |
| Ecobank | *326# |
Choose “Open Account” |
| Stanbic IBTC | *909# |
Select “Account Opening” |
| Jaiz Bank | *773# |
Choose “Open Account” option |
| Heritage Bank | *745# |
Select “Open Account” |
| Globius Bank / Titan Trust / Premium Trust | *989# / *922# / *858# |
Select “Create Account” menu |
Step 2: Provide Basic Personal Details
After dialing the code, you’ll be asked for:
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Your full name (as it appears on NIN or BVN if applicable)
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Date of birth
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Gender
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PIN (a new 4-digit transaction PIN for security)
Make sure all details are entered correctly; these determine how your account is registered.
Step 3: Receive Your New Account Number via SMS
Once confirmed, the bank will send you your 10-digit account number instantly by SMS.
You can immediately start receiving funds from anyone in Nigeria — the account becomes active right away.
Account Tier Limits for USSD-Opened Accounts
| Tier | Daily Transfer Limit | Maximum Balance | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 (Basic USSD Account) | ₦50,000 | ₦300,000 | Phone number only |
| Tier 2 (Upgraded) | ₦200,000 | ₦500,000 | BVN or ID card |
| Tier 3 (Full KYC) | Unlimited | No limit | BVN + valid ID + utility bill |
You can upgrade anytime by visiting your bank or linking your BVN via USSD.
How to Upgrade or Link BVN to Your USSD Account
To upgrade and increase your limits, dial your bank’s USSD and select “Link BVN” or “Upgrade Account.”
For example:
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Access Bank:
*901*14# -
GTBank:
*737*20# -
First Bank:
*894# → Link BVN -
UBA:
*919*30# -
Zenith Bank:
*966*BVN#
Once linked, your account becomes fully verified, and you’ll have access to higher limits, debit cards, and loans.
Troubleshooting Common USSD Account Opening Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Code not responding | Weak signal | Move to stronger network area |
| “Invalid response” | Wrong format entered | Redial carefully |
| “Service not available” | Temporary server downtime | Try again after 10 mins |
| “SIM not registered” | Unlinked NIN or inactive line | Link NIN or contact network |
| “Account number not sent” | SMS delay | Wait a few minutes or restart phone |
Security Tips for USSD Banking
Always create a strong 4-digit PIN (avoid 1234 or birth year).
Keep your phone locked with a passcode.
Do not share your PIN with anyone — not even bank staff.
If your phone is lost, call your bank immediately to block USSD access.
Avoid dialing USSD on public Wi-Fi or using shared SIMs.
Regularly check your balance to ensure no unauthorized transactions.
Benefits of Opening a Bank Account via USSD
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Saves time — no queues or forms.
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Works on all GSM networks.
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Free to open and maintain.
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Ideal for students, artisans, traders, and rural dwellers.
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Supports the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) financial inclusion drive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I open a bank account without BVN?
Yes. Most banks allow you to open a Tier 1 USSD account without BVN. However, linking BVN later increases your transaction limit.
How long does it take to get an account number?
Less than 5 minutes. Once you complete the USSD process, your new account number arrives via SMS almost instantly.
Can I receive money immediately after opening a USSD account?
Yes. Once your account number is active, you can receive transfers from any bank right away.
Is it safe to open an account with USSD?
Yes, it’s secure. All transactions require a personal 4-digit PIN that only you know.
Can I get an ATM card for a USSD account?
Yes. Visit any branch of your bank to request an ATM card once your account is active or upgraded.
What happens if I forget my USSD PIN?
You can reset it by dialing your bank’s code and selecting “Reset PIN.” You’ll need to verify your identity before setting a new one.
Why does my USSD account have a ₦50,000 limit?
Because it’s a Tier 1 basic account opened without BVN or ID. You can increase the limit by linking your BVN.
Do I need airtime or data to open a USSD account?
You need a small amount of airtime (₦6.98 session charge) but no data connection.
Can I open accounts in more than one bank using USSD?
Yes. You can open and manage accounts from multiple banks as long as each is tied to your valid phone number.
What if I lose my SIM card?
Contact your network provider to retrieve your line, then visit your bank with ID to reactivate access safely.
Conclusion
USSD banking has broken the barriers of traditional banking in Nigeria.
With just your phone and a simple code, you can now open an account, receive money, and begin your financial journey — no paperwork, no queues, no stress.
This innovation supports the Central Bank’s goal of financial inclusion, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location or device, has access to secure banking.
Bookmark this guide or visit nigeriaussdcodes.com anytime for updated USSD codes, troubleshooting tips, and bank service updates.