Full list of Nigerian bank USSD codes 2025 for fast and secure transactions
USSD banking codes in 2025 are usually the lifeline that keeps millions financially connected. In a world where shiny fintech apps and mobile wallets are taking centre stage, there’s one old-school but powerful technology that continues to serve millions of Nigerians, the inclusive technology available to all and sundry —USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data).
While not as flashy as app-based banking, USSD remains a lifeline for everyday transactions, especially for people without internet access or smartphones. It’s reliable, quick, and doesn’t require data. In 2025, with over 70 million Nigerians still relying on feature phones, USSD is more than just relevant—it’s essential.
Why USSD still matters in 2025
Nigeria’s digital landscape is evolving fast, but many rural and semi-urban areas still face challenges like poor network coverage, unreliable electricity, and limited access to internet-enabled devices. USSD solves for all of these.
With just a few shortcodes and your registered mobile number, you can check balances, send money, pay bills, and top up airtime—no data, no app downloads, no stress.
What makes USSD special? It works on any phone, any time, even on the go. Whether you’re in bustling Lagos or a remote village in Taraba, USSD ensures you’re never locked out of the financial system.
Comprehensive USSD codes for major Nigerian banks
Here’s a handy 2025 cheat sheet you’ll want to bookmark and share:
Access Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*901*00# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*901*Amount# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*901*Amount*Account Number#
First Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*894*00# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*894*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*894*Amount*Account Number#
GTBank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*737*6*1# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*737*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*737*Amount*Account Number#
Zenith Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*966*00# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*966*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*966*Amount*Account Number#
Sterling Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*822*6# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*822*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*822*Amount*Account Number#
EcoBank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*326*0# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*326*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*326*Amount*Account Number#
Fidelity Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*770*0# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*770*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*770*Amount*Account Number#
Union Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*826# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*826*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*826*Amount*Account Number#
Wema Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*945*0# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*945*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*945*Amount*Account Number#
Stanbic IBTC Bank
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*909*1# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*909*Amount*Phone Number# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*909*Amount*Account Number#
UBA
- 💰 Balance Enquiry:
*919*00# - 📞 Airtime Recharge:
*919*Phone Number*Amount# - 💸 Transfer Funds:
*919*3*Account Number*Amount#
Common USSD issues and how to fix them
USSD is usually fast, but if you hit a snag, here are some quick fixes:
- Error messages like “connection problem” or “MMI code not valid”? Check your network signal or reboot your phone.
- Code not working? Ensure you’re dialling from the phone number linked to your bank account.
- Can’t remember your PIN? Contact your bank for a secure PIN reset—never share it with anyone.
Stay safe: tips for secure USSD banking
USSD is safe, but like anything in finance, security is key. Here’s how to protect your account:
- Only dial codes from your own phone, not someone else’s.
- Never share your PIN—not even with bank staff.
- Avoid using easily guessed PINs like birthdays or “1234”.
- Always end sessions properly and report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
Quick comparison: USSD vs Mobile Apps
| Feature | USSD ✅ | Mobile App 📱 |
|---|---|---|
| Works Without Internet | ✅ | ❌ |
| Smartphone Required | ❌ | ✅ |
| Basic Banking Functions | ✅ | ✅ |
| Visual Interface | ❌ | ✅ |
| Suitable for Rural Areas | ✅ | ❌ |
Final thoughts: simple, secure, smart
As 2025 unfolds, it’s clear that USSD banking isn’t going anywhere. It may not be fancy, but it’s reliable, fast, and inclusive, a reminder that sometimes, less really is more.
Whether you’re sending money to a friend, checking your account before payday, or topping up your mum’s phone, USSD puts banking power right in your hands, with no data required.
Pro tip: Save your bank’s USSD code as a contact on your phone for quick access. Better yet, share this guide with someone who needs it, you never know who you might be helping.
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