How to Gift Data on MTN, Sharing Code

MTN, one of the leading telecommunications providers in Nigeria and across Africa, offers a convenient service that allows users to share or gift data to friends, family, and colleagues. This service ensures that your loved ones can stay online even when they run out of data. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various methods of gifting data on MTN, the benefits, the terms and conditions, and some practical tips to make the most out of this service.

1. Introduction to MTN Data Gifting

MTN’s data gifting service allows subscribers to share a portion of their data bundle with another MTN user. This service is particularly useful for parents who want to ensure their children have enough data, friends who want to help each other out, or businesses that need to keep their employees connected.

2. Methods of Gifting Data on MTN

MTN offers several methods to gift data, each designed to be user-friendly and accessible. Here are the primary methods:

a. USSD Code

The most straightforward method to gift data on MTN is by using a USSD code. This method is quick and does not require an internet connection.

Dial the USSD Code: Dial *321*2# or *312*8# on your phone.
Select the Data Gifting Option: Follow the prompts to select the data gifting option.
Enter the Recipient’s Number: Input the MTN number of the person you want to gift data to.
Choose the Data Bundle: Select the data bundle you wish to gift from the available options.
Confirm the Transaction: Confirm the transaction to complete the process.

Alternatively, you can use the direct code:

Transfer Data: You can now transfer data from your existing data balance to your family & friends. Simply dial *312*Phone number*Data amount# or, text Transfer<space>Phone number<space>Data amount and to 312.

The maximum amount you can transfer in a day is 5GB.

Buy Data for a Friend: You can buy a specific data bundle for your special friend, and the cost will be deducted from your airtime. Simply dial *312*Bundle Activation Code*Beneficiary’s Phone number#

Request Data from a Friend: Need data urgently? You can request data from a special friend. Simply dial *312*7*3#

b. MTN Mobile App (MyMTN App)

The MyMTN App offers a convenient way to manage your MTN account, including gifting data. Here’s how to do it:

Download and Install the MyMTN App: Available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Log In or Register: Log in with your MTN number or register if you haven’t already.
Navigate to the Data Gifting Section: Go to the data services or data gifting section.
Enter the Recipient’s Number: Input the MTN number of the person you want to gift data to.
Choose the Data Bundle: Select the data bundle you wish to gift.
Confirm the Transaction: Follow the prompts to confirm the transaction.

c. SMS Method

Gifting data via SMS is another simple method:

Compose a New SMS: Open your SMS app and compose a new message.
Enter the Recipient’s Number and Data Amount: In the format ‘GIFT [Recipient’s Number] [Data Amount]’. For example, ‘GIFT 08031234500 500MB’.
Send to the Designated Number: Send the message to 312.

3. Types of Data Bundles Available for Gifting

MTN offers a variety of data bundles that can be gifted. These bundles cater to different data needs and budgets. Here’s an overview of the types of data bundles available:

a. Daily Data Bundles

Daily data bundles are ideal for short-term needs and are the most affordable. They typically last for 24 hours.

50MB for ₦50: Ideal for light browsing and social media.
150MB for ₦100: Suitable for moderate usage within a day.
500MB for ₦200: Good for more intensive usage over a single day.

b. Weekly Data Bundles

Weekly data bundles are suitable for users who need a consistent amount of data over a week.

150MB for ₦300: Light usage spread over a week.
500MB for ₦500: Moderate usage for social media and browsing.
1GB for ₦1,000: Heavy usage including some streaming.

c. Monthly Data Bundles

Monthly data bundles offer the best value for long-term data needs.

1.5GB for ₦1,000: Light monthly usage.
2GB for ₦1,200: Slightly more intensive monthly usage.
3GB for ₦1,500: Moderate monthly usage including some streaming.
10GB for ₦3,000: Heavy monthly usage including video streaming and downloads.
20GB for ₦5,000: Very heavy monthly usage, suitable for households.

d. Mega Data Bundles

Mega data bundles are designed for very heavy data users or small businesses.

40GB for ₦10,000: Suitable for businesses or heavy users.
75GB for ₦15,000: Very heavy usage, ideal for shared use.
100GB for ₦20,000: Extensive usage, perfect for business needs.

4. Benefits of Gifting Data on MTN

There are numerous benefits to gifting data on MTN:

a. Convenience

The process of gifting data on MTN is straightforward and can be done via multiple methods, ensuring that users can choose the most convenient option for them.

b. Flexibility

MTN’s data gifting service offers a range of data bundles to suit different needs and budgets. This flexibility ensures that you can always find a suitable bundle to gift.

c. Staying Connected

Gifting data ensures that your friends, family, or colleagues stay connected, which is crucial for maintaining communication and accessing essential online services.

d. Cost-Effective

Sharing or gifting data can be more cost-effective than each individual purchasing their own bundles, especially for families or groups with varying data needs.

e. Encourages Digital Inclusion

By gifting data, you help others gain access to the internet, promoting digital inclusion and ensuring that more people can benefit from online resources.

5. Terms and Conditions

Understanding the terms and conditions of MTN’s data gifting service is essential to avoid any misunderstandings:

a. Eligibility

Both the sender and the recipient must be active MTN subscribers. The recipient must have a compatible device that can receive and use the gifted data.

b. Validity Period

The validity of the gifted data depends on the bundle chosen. Daily bundles last for 24 hours, weekly bundles for 7 days, and monthly bundles for 30 days. It is important to note that the validity starts from the time the data is gifted.

c. Transfer Limits

There may be limits on the amount of data you can gift in a single transaction or within a day. Check MTN’s official guidelines or contact customer service for detailed information on transfer limits.

d. Charges

There are no additional charges for gifting data on MTN. You only pay for the cost of the data bundle you are gifting.

e. Unused Data

Unused data at the end of the validity period will not be rolled over unless the recipient activates another data bundle before the current one expires.

6. Practical Tips for Gifting Data on MTN

To make the most out of MTN’s data gifting service, consider the following practical tips:

a. Choose the Right Bundle

Select a data bundle that matches the recipient’s usage patterns. For example, if the recipient uses a lot of data for streaming, consider gifting a larger bundle with a longer validity period.

b. Monitor Data Usage

Encourage the recipient to monitor their data usage to avoid running out of data unexpectedly. This can be done using the MyMTN App or by dialing 1314# to check data balance.

c. Take Advantage of Promotions

MTN often runs promotions that offer extra data or discounts on data bundles. Keep an eye on these promotions to get more value when gifting data.

d. Educate the Recipient

Ensure that the recipient knows how to manage their gifted data and understands the validity period. This will help them make the most out of the data you gift them.

7. Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While gifting data on MTN is generally a smooth process, you may encounter some issues. Here are common problems and their solutions:

a. Insufficient Balance

If you receive an error message about insufficient balance, ensure that you have enough airtime or credit to purchase the desired data bundle. You may need to top up your account before retrying.

b. Incorrect Recipient Number

Double-check the recipient’s number before confirming the transaction. Sending data to the wrong number cannot be reversed.

c. Network Issues

If you experience network issues or delays in the transaction, wait a few minutes and try again. If the problem persists, contact MTN customer service for assistance.

d. Non-Eligible Recipient

Ensure that the recipient is an active MTN subscriber with a compatible device. If the recipient is not eligible, the transaction will not go through.

8. FAQs about MTN Data Gifting

Q1. Can I gift data to someone on another network?

No, MTN’s data gifting service is only available for MTN subscribers. Both the sender and the recipient must be on the MTN network.

Q2. Is there a limit to how many times I can gift data?

There may be daily or monthly limits on the number of times you can gift data. Check with MTN’s official guidelines for detailed information.

Q3. Can I gift part of my existing data bundle?

No, you cannot gift part of your existing data bundle. Data gifting involves purchasing and sending a new data bundle to the recipient.

Q4. What happens if the recipient doesn’t use the gifted data?

If the recipient does not use the gifted data within the validity period, the data will expire. It is important to remind the recipient to use the data before it expires.

Q5. Can I cancel a data gifting transaction?

Once a data gifting transaction is confirmed, it cannot be canceled or reversed. Ensure all details are correct before confirming the transaction.

9. Customer Support and Assistance

If you encounter any issues or have questions about MTN’s data gifting service, there are several ways to get support:

Call MTN Customer Care: Dial 180 from your MTN line or 08031000180 from any other network.
Visit the MTN Website: Check the FAQs and support sections for information and assistance.
Visit an MTN Service Center: Locate the nearest MTN service center for in-person assistance.
Use the MyMTN App: The app offers a support section where you can find answers to common questions or contact customer care.

Gifting data on MTN is a convenient and thoughtful way to keep your loved ones connected. Whether you choose to gift data via USSD code, the MyMTN App, or SMS, the process is designed to be simple and user-friendly. With a wide range of data bundles available, you can find the perfect option to suit any need or budget.

By understanding the methods, benefits, terms and conditions, and practical tips, you can make the most out of MTN’s data gifting service. Stay connected, share the gift of data, and enjoy the convenience and flexibility that MTN offers.

For more information on MTN’s data gifting service and other offerings, visit the MTN website or follow their social media channels. Stay connected with MTN and help others stay connected too.