How do I check my airtime balance in Nigeria?
Dial *310#. It is the unified balance code introduced under the NCC harmonisation directive and works across the networks.
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Last updated: August 20,2026
Managing your airtime in Nigeria just got a lot simpler. Whether you're on MTN, Airtel, GLO, or 9Mobile, checking your airtime balance no longer requires memorising different codes for each network. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a unified USSD system that works across all four major networks. So, simply one code is all you need.
In this blog, we are sharing the latest and most accurate methods to check your airtime balance on MTN, Airtel, GLO, and 9Mobile in Nigeria, including USSD codes, SMS options, and official apps for each network. Let's begin!
MTN remains the largest mobile network in Nigeria, with over 93 million subscribers. Because of this scale, the network has made airtime balance checks quick, accessible, and consistent across different types of devices. Whether you’re using a basic feature phone or a modern smartphone, you can check your balance in just a few seconds using any of the methods below.
The USSD option remains the most reliable and widely used method. It doesn’t require an internet connection, works on all phones, and delivers instant results.
1. Open your phone's dialler
2. Type *310#
3. Press the call button
4. Your airtime balance will appear on your screen instantly
Note: The old MTN balance code *556# has been phased out following the NCC's harmonisation directive. If you've been using it out of habit, switch to *310# going forward.
If you prefer a more detailed and visual experience, the MyMTN NG app offers a convenient alternative.
Once you log in, your airtime balance is displayed prominently on the homepage alongside your data balance. Beyond just checking your balance, the app allows you to:
This makes it a more comprehensive tool for users who want full control over their mobile account, not just a quick balance check.
In situations where USSD codes or the app aren’t working, perhaps due to network issues or account-specific concerns you can always reach out to customer support.
Airtel is known for its strong network coverage and competitive data plans, making it one of the most widely used networks in Nigeria. Checking your airtime balance on Airtel follows the same unified system introduced by the NCC.
1. Open your phone's dialler
2. Dial *310#
3. Press the call button
4. Your balance appears on screen immediately
Note: The former Airtel balance code *124# is no longer the standard. The NCC-unified *310# is now the correct code to use across all networks, including Airtel.
For users who prefer a more interactive and detailed interface, the Airtel Thanks app provides a convenient alternative.
After downloading and setting up the app, your airtime and data balances are displayed on the main dashboard immediately upon login. The first-time setup requires number verification via OTP, but once completed, access becomes quick and seamless.
Beyond balance checks, the app allows you to:
This makes it particularly useful for users who want deeper insights and control over their mobile usage.
If you’re unable to use USSD or the mobile app, customer support is always available as a fallback option.
GLO is widely recognised for offering some of the most affordable data plans in Nigeria. If you're a GLO subscriber wondering how to check your airtime balance on GLO, here's exactly what to do.
1. Open your phone's dialler
2. Dial *310#
3. Press the call button
4. Your airtime balance is displayed instantly
Note: GLO previously used *124# for checking airtime balance. Following the NCC harmonisation, this has been replaced by the unified *310# code.
If you’re unable to access USSD, something that can occasionally happen during network congestion—GLO provides an alternative via SMS.
For a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience, the Glo Café app serves as GLO’s official account management platform. Once you log in, your airtime and data balances are clearly displayed on the dashboard. In addition to balance checks, the app allows you to:
This option is ideal for users who prefer a digital dashboard and want more visibility into their mobile usage beyond just checking airtime.
With GLO covered, let’s move on to the final network on the list—9Mobile.
9Mobile which recently rebranded as T2 Mobile in August 2025 is the fourth major network operating in Nigeria. If you still refer to it as 9Mobile, you're not alone. The rebrand is still rolling out, and the network continues to operate on the same infrastructure. The balance-checking methods remain the same regardless of what you call it.
1. Open your phone's dialler
2. Dial *310#
3. Press the call button
4. Your current airtime balance appears on screen
Note: The old 9Mobile codes *232#and *228# are no longer in use. Like all other networks, 9Mobile now operates under the NCC-unified *310# for airtime balance checks.
If USSD is temporarily unavailable or not responding due to network congestion, SMS offers a dependable backup option.
This method is slightly slower than USSD but remains useful when you need an alternative channel for quick account information.
The official self-service app has also evolved alongside the rebrand. The earlier ig9ite has now been updated to the MyT2 app.
After downloading and logging in with your 9Mobile number:
The app is designed for users who prefer a more visual and control-oriented experience compared to USSD or SMS methods.
Before diving into the step-by-step methods for each network, it’s important to understand why checking your airtime balance isn’t just a routine action. It’s a habit that can save you money and prevent unnecessary disruptions.
It prevents failed transactions. Many essential services in Nigeria, such as USSD banking, bill payments, and mobile transfers, depend on having sufficient airtime. If your balance runs out mid-transaction, it can lead to delays, incomplete processes, or even failed payments. In some cases, this could result in extra charges or repeated attempts. A quick balance check beforehand helps you avoid these situations entirely.
In short, regularly checking your airtime balance is a simple habit that improves financial awareness, prevents unexpected losses, and ensures smooth access to essential mobile services.
Now that you understand why this matters, let’s break down what you should do if the USSD code methods is not working.
Although USSD codes like *310# are designed to be fast and reliable, there are times when they may fail to respond or time out. This is usually not a permanent issue, but rather a temporary network or device-related interruption. If that happens, here are the most effective ways to troubleshoot the problem.
USSD requests require a stable mobile signal to go through. If your device is showing weak reception or no service, the request may not be completed. In such cases, simply moving to a different location, closer to a window or an open area can help restore connectivity and allow the code to work properly again.
A quick restart can resolve minor software or network glitches that may be blocking USSD functionality. This refreshes your device’s connection to the mobile network and often restores normal service without any additional steps.
During peak usage hours, telecom networks can become temporarily congested. When this happens, USSD requests may delay or fail entirely. Waiting for two to three minutes before trying again often resolves the issue without further action.
If USSD continues to fail, switching to backup options is the most practical solution. Each network provides alternatives such as SMS-based balance checks or dedicated mobile applications, which remain unaffected by USSD congestion. These methods are especially useful when you need uninterrupted access to your account details.
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, the final option is to reach out to support. You can dial 300 , the unified customer care shortcode introduced by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which now works across all major Nigerian networks including MTN, Airtel, GLO, and 9Mobile. A support agent can help diagnose the issue and restore access if needed.
In most cases, USSD issues are temporary and resolved quickly with one of the steps above. Keeping these alternatives in mind ensures you’re never completely cut off from checking your airtime or managing your mobile account.
Staying on top of your airtime balance is a small habit with a big payoff. It keeps you in control, saves you from failed transactions, and helps you avoid unnecessary disruptions to your calls and data usage. With NCC's unified code *310# now working across MTN, Airtel, GLO, and 9Mobile, there's really no reason to ever be caught off guard.
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1. What is the code to check your airtime balance in Nigeria?
Dial *310# from your line. Following the NCC harmonisation this single code now works on MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9Mobile, and your balance appears on screen immediately.
2. Is *556# still the MTN airtime balance code?
No. MTN subscribers who still dial *556# out of habit should switch to *310#, which is the unified code across all four networks.
3. Does *124# still work for Airtel or Glo?
No. Both Airtel and Glo previously used *124# for balance checks and it is no longer the standard. Dial *310# instead.
4. What happened to the old 9Mobile codes *232# and *228#?
They have been retired. Like every other Nigerian network, 9Mobile now operates under the NCC-unified *310# for airtime balance checks.
5. Why did all the networks move to one code?
The NCC harmonised the short codes so that subscribers do not have to remember a different string for each network. One code now covers MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9Mobile.
6. Can I check my airtime balance without dialling a code?
Yes. Each network has its own app: MyMTN NG for MTN, My Airtel App for Airtel, and the Glo Café app for Glo. Sign in and the balance is shown on the dashboard.
7. Is there an SMS method for checking a Glo balance?
Yes. Glo offers an SMS route alongside the USSD code and the Glo Café app, so you can pick whichever is easiest on your handset.
8. Can I call customer care to check my balance?
Yes. MTN and Airtel both list a customer care line as a third option if the USSD code fails or your handset is having trouble with the menu.
9. Does checking my airtime balance cost anything?
Dialling the USSD code is the quickest route and works on any handset, including feature phones with no internet connection, so no data is needed.
10. What if my balance is too low to recharge?
You can top up without a bank transfer by selling an unused gift card on Cardgoal, loading your wallet and buying airtime for any Nigerian network from there.
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