If you are a bank account holder in Nigeria, you must have heard about the Bank Verification Number (BVN) system. The BVN is a unique 11-digit number that serves as a universal ID for all Nigerian bank account holders. It was introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in 2014 to curb financial fraud, improve the efficiency of banking operations, and enhance financial inclusion.
It is important to have your BVN handy as you need it to open a new bank account, apply for a loan, and other financial transactions.
If you don't know your BVN or need to verify it, don't worry, you can check it on your mobile phone using a USSD code. This article teaches you how.
How to get your BVN
Getting your Bank Verification Number (BVN) in Nigeria is a relatively simple process.
1. Visit any Nigerian bank branch: You will need to visit a branch of the Nigerian bank where you have an account and present valid identification documents such as your driver’s license, national ID card, or international passport.
2. Fill out the BVN registration form: After verifying your identity, the bank staff will provide you with a BVN registration form which you will need to fill out accurately and completely.
3. Provide biometric data: Once you fill the form, you will need to provide biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition images to create your unique BVN profile.
4. Receive confirmation: After submitting all necessary information, you should receive confirmation that your BVN has been successfully registered within 2-4 days of registration.
Once you have obtained your BVN, it is important to keep it safe and secure at all times as fraudsters or hackers can use it to access your financial information without permission. If you suspect that someone has accessed your BVN without authorization, contact your bank immediately so they can take appropriate action and protect your funds from potential theft or fraud.
How to Check Your BVN Using MTN, Glo, 9Mobile and Airtel
To check your BVN on MTN, Glo, 9Mobile or Airtel, simply dial *565*0# on your phone. You will then receive a text message with the details of your BVN.
It is important to note this will require that you have an active SIM card for whichever network you are using. Additionally, some networks may charge a small fee for checking one’s BVN via their service, so, make sure you have sufficient airtime credit.
Now that you have successfully checked your BVN, it's time to take the next step towards securing your financial future. One of the best ways to do this is by opening a savings account with a bank of your choice.
However, before making a decision, it's important to compare the interest rates, charges, and other features of different savings accounts offered by banks in Nigeria. To do this, visit nairaCompare to find the best savings account that suits your needs.
Other Ways to Check Your BVN
Apart from the USSD code method, you can also check your BVN through the following channels:
1. Bank Mobile App: Most Nigerian banks have mobile apps that allow you to check your BVN on your smartphone. All you need to do is download your bank's mobile app and log in to your account. Go to the menu and select "BVN" or "My Profile" to view your BVN.
2. Bank Website: You can also check your BVN by logging into your bank's website. Look for the "BVN" or "My Profile" section and follow the instructions to view your BVN.
3. Bank Branch: You can go to the nearest branch with a valid means of identification and request for your BVN.
Why You Need to Know Your BVN
Identity Verification: Your BVN is used to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By checking your BVN, you can ensure that your personal information is correct and up to date.
Financial Transactions: Your BVN is necessary for most financial transactions in Nigeria. Without it, you won't be able to open a new bank account, apply for a loan, or make certain transactions.
In conclusion, checking your BVN has been made easy and convenient. You can use the USSD code provided above to check your BVN from the comfort of your home, office, or on-the-go.
It is important to note that your BVN is a confidential and sensitive piece of information that should not be shared with anyone. If you suspect that your BVN has been compromised, contact your bank immediately to report the issue and take appropriate measures to protect your account.
How to Unbar Your Phone Lines
1. For subscribers that have not registered for their NIN, get your SIM registered at accredited centres across the country.
2. Then link the NIN with your SIM through channels provided by your service provider.
3. For subscribers with registered NINs, simply visit your service provider centre and present the NIN or link your SIM through channels provided by your service providers.
4. But if you have NIN but it was forgotten, retrieve your NIN conveniently using your mobile phone by dialling *346# to get the number.
5. From the options displayed, select “NIN Retrieval”, by typing in ‘1’, if you are using the same phone number you enrolled with for your NIN.
6. Follow the steps displayed on your screen and provide the required inputs.
7. Note that using this service attracts a N20 fee only (deducted from your phone airtime balance).
8. However, the four Mobile Network Operators in the country have designated certain USSD codes for seamless and quick linkage of your NIN and your SIM cards. They are as follows:
USSD CODES
a. For MTN Customers Dial *785# using the phone number you wish to link, enter your NIN and submit or dial *785*Your NIN# from the phone number you wish to link. The number will be linked to your NIN automatically.
b. For Glo Customers Simply send “UPDATENIN NIN FirstName and LastName” to 109.
c. For Airtel Customers Just dial *121*1# now to link.
d. For 9Mobile Customers Dial *200*8# and follow the prompts on your phone screen.
Also, if you have specific questions or need assistance with your BVN, please contact your bank's customer support or visit a bank branch for guidance.
