How Do I Link My NIN to My MTN Number? So many of us don’t know that the NIN is used to keep the country’s records accurate and secure. Every Nigerian is required to link their NIN to their mobile numbers, especially with telecom companies like MTN.
The Nigerian government made this a rule to reduce fraud and improve security across the country. This might sound complicated but it’s a simple process that can be done in 3 easy steps.
If you’re wondering How do I link my NIN to my MTN number?, then you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through all you need to know about linking your NIN to your MTN.
First, we’ll explain what NIN is and why you need to link it to your MTN number. Then we’ll show you how to link your NIN to your MTN line using the online portal or the easy USSD method.
If you are ready then let’s get started right away!
What is NIN?
Before we get into how to link your NIN to your MTN number, let’s first understand what NIN is and why it’s important.
The National Identification Number (NIN) is an 11 digit number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC to every Nigerian who has registered with them.
This number is unique to every individual and is tied to your demographic details, fingerprint, signature and even your passport photo.
Think of it like a social security number but for Nigeria. It helps the government track and verify individuals to reduce fraud, improve security and make it easier to provide public services.
To get your NIN you need to visit a NIMC enrollment center and provide some documents like your birth certificate, driver’s license or voter’s card to complete your registration.
After getting your NIN you can use it for other services including linking it to your mobile network provider like MTN.
Why Link NIN to MTN Number?
Now that you know what NIN is, you might be asking, Why do I need to link it to my MTN number?
The government made it compulsory for every mobile network subscriber to link NIN to their phone number.
This is part of the government’s effort to curb fraud, illegal activities and insecurity in the country. By linking your NIN to your MTN number, government can track phone numbers and reduce the use of unregistered SIM cards.
For MTN subscribers, it’s very important because if you don’t do it, your line will be barred.
Once you link your NIN successfully, you can continue to use your MTN number without any issues.
Linking your NIN is also a way to update your records in the National Identity Database so you can access government services.
In summary, linking your NIN is not just a requirement—it’s a step to national security and to keep your line active.
How do I link my NIN to my MTN number?
There are two ways to link your NIN to your MTN number: through the MTN NIN portal or using the USSD code. Let’s go through both so you can choose the one that suits you.
Method 1: Linking NIN through MTN NIN portal
MTN NIN portal is an online platform where you can link your NIN to your MTN number. Follow these steps:
1. Open MTN NIN portal
Go to MTN NIN linking portal. You can search for “MTN NIN linking portal” online. It’s made easy.
2. Enter Your Details
Once you’re in, you’ll be asked to fill in your info. You’ll need to enter your Virtual NIN (VNIN) which is a special number generated using your NIN, phone number and email.
If you don’t have your VNIN yet, don’t worry—this is something you can get by dialing *346# and selecting option 3 to generate your VNIN.
3. Verify Your Info
Enter your details and click “Next”. A screen will pop up with the info you entered. Double check to make sure everything is correct, especially your VNIN and phone number.
4. Enter the OTP
MTN will send a One-Time Password (OTP) to the phone number you entered. Check your phone for the OTP and enter it into the portal. This is for security to confirm it’s really you linking your NIN to your MTN number.
5. Done
Enter the OTP and click “Enter” to complete the process. You’ll get a message that your NIN has been linked to your MTN number.
Method 2: USSD Code
If you don’t want to use the online portal, you can link your NIN to your MTN number using the USSD code. This is a faster option and you don’t need internet to do this.
1. *Dial 996#
Open your phone’s dialer and dial *996#. This is the MTN USSD code for NIN linking.
2. Select NIN Linking Option
After dialing the code, you’ll see a menu with options. Select option 1, “Submit Virtual NIN”
3. Follow the instructions
After selecting the option, you’ll be asked to enter your Virtual NIN (VNIN). If you don’t have your VNIN yet, just follow the same process above by dialing *346# and select option 3 to generate it.
5. Done
Follow the rest of the instructions and once you’re done, your NIN will be linked to your MTN number. You’ll get a message that the process was successful.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
You may encounter some issues when trying to link your NIN to your MTN number. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
- I Don’t Have a NIN
If you don’t have a NIN yet, you need to go to a NIN enrollment center to register. You’ll need your BVN, birth certificate or ID to complete the process. - My MTN Line is Not Registered
If your MTN line is not registered, you can’t link it to your NIN. You need to go to an MTN service center to register your line before you start the NIN linking process. - My Line is Barred
If your MTN line is barred, try linking your NIN to unbar it. If that doesn’t work, contact MTN customer care for help. - I’ve Linked My NIN to 7 Numbers
Note that you can only link your NIN to a maximum of 7 numbers. If you have reached that limit, you can’t link any more numbers to your NIN.
What happens if I don’t link my NIN to my MTN number?
If you don’t link your NIN to your MTN number, your number will be blocked. The government wants to ensure all mobile network users are registered.
Don’t lose your MTN number, link your NIN now.
Conclusion
In summary, linking your NIN to your MTN number is a simple task every MTN user in Nigeria must do.
It’s not just about the government’s regulation—it’s about keeping your line active and your information registered in the national database.
Whether you use the MTN portal or USSD code, it’s both easy.
So don’t wait till it’s too late. Follow the steps above and you’ll link your NIN to your MTN number stress free.
If you encounter any issues, remember there’s help available, MTN customer care. Stay connected stay safe.
