In the vibrant, fast-paced economy of Nigeria, staying connected to your finances is non-negotiable. While high-speed internet and sophisticated banking apps have become the norm for many, the reality of "data exhaustion" or network downtime is a common hurdle. This is where Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) banking shines. It is the "silent engine" of Nigerian finance reliable, instant, and accessible even on a basic feature phone.
As we navigate 2026, USSD banking has evolved beyond simple balance checks. It is now a comprehensive financial toolkit used for everything from paying utility bills to cardless withdrawals at ATMs. For the NaijaRave community, mastering these codes isn't just a convenience; it's a strategic move to ensure you are never stranded, regardless of your data balance. This guide provides an authentic, exhaustive directory of all major Nigerian bank USSD codes and the specific syntax for transfers, airtime, and more.
The Universal Access: Why USSD Still Rules in 2026
Despite the surge in digital banking, USSD remains the most inclusive banking channel in Nigeria. According to recent data from the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), USSD transactions continue to account for a significant percentage of daily financial volume, particularly for micro-payments and airtime top-ups.
The beauty of USSD lies in its simplicity. It doesn't require a 5G connection or a smartphone. Whether you are at a remote farm in the North or stuck in Lagos traffic, as long as you have a mobile signal, you have a bank branch in your pocket. Furthermore, the 2026 regulatory updates from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have standardized many of these processes, ensuring higher security and lower failure rates across all networks.
Directory of Major Nigerian Bank USSD Codes
Below is the definitive list of primary USSD codes for Nigeria's leading commercial banks. To use these, simply dial the code from the phone number registered with your bank account.
1. Access Bank: *901#
Access Bank’s USSD platform, known as "901", is one of the most robust in the country. Following the merger with Diamond Bank, the platform was unified to offer a seamless experience for all customers.
- Check Balance: Dial *901*00#
- Airtime Top-up (Self): Dial *901*Amount#
- Airtime Top-up (Others): Dial *901*Amount*Phone Number#
- Transfer to Access Bank: Dial *901*1*Amount*Account Number#
- Transfer to Other Banks: Dial *901*2*Amount*Account Number#
- Open Account: Dial *901*0#
2. Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank): *737#
The "737" code is perhaps the most iconic USSD string in Nigeria. It pioneered the "simple banking" movement and remains a favorite for its ease of use and catchy marketing.
- Check Balance: Dial *737*6*1#
- Airtime Top-up (Self): Dial *737*Amount#
- Airtime Top-up (Others): Dial *737*Amount*Phone Number#
- Transfer to GTBank: Dial *737*1*Amount*Account Number#
- Transfer to Other Banks: Dial *737*2*Amount*Account Number#
- Data Top-up: Dial *737*4#
- Generate OTP: Dial *737*7#
3. United Bank for Africa (UBA): *919#
UBA refers to its USSD service as "Magic Banking," and for good reason. It allows for advanced features like flight bookings and tax payments directly from the USSD menu.
- Check Balance: Dial *919*00#
- Airtime Top-up (Self): Dial *919*Amount#
- Airtime Top-up (Others): Dial *919*Amount*Phone Number#
- Transfer to UBA Account: Dial *919*3*1*Account Number*Amount#
- Transfer to Other Banks: Dial *919*3*2*Account Number*Amount#
- Load UBA Prepaid Card: Dial *919*32#
4. First Bank of Nigeria: *894#
First Bank’s "894" Quick Banking is designed for the modern Nigerian who values heritage and reliability. It is widely used across all demographics, from students to retirees.
- Check Balance: Dial *894*00#
- Airtime Top-up (Self): Dial *894*Amount#
- Airtime Top-up (Others): Dial *894*Amount*Phone Number#
- Transfer (General): Dial *894*Amount*Account Number#
- Mini Statement: Dial *894*Account Number#
5. Zenith Bank: *966#
Zenith Bank’s "EazyBanking" focuses on speed and security. Their USSD platform is particularly popular among corporate professionals and entrepreneurs.
- Check Balance: Dial *966*00#
- Airtime Top-up (Self): Dial *966*Amount#
- Transfer (General): Dial *966*Amount*Account Number#
- Update BVN: Dial *966*BVN#
- Deactivate Account (Security): Dial *966*911#
Comprehensive List for Other Commercial Banks
If your bank is not among the "Big Five," don't worry. Nearly every financial institution in Nigeria has a dedicated shortcode. Here is the expanded list for 2026:
- Fidelity Bank: *770# (Transfer: *770*Account*Amount#)
- First City Monument Bank (FCMB): *329# (Balance: *329*00#)
- Union Bank: *826# (Airtime: *826*Amount#)
- Wema Bank (ALAT): *945# (Check Balance: *945*0#)
- Sterling Bank: *822# (Transfer: *822*Amount*Account#)
- Stanbic IBTC Bank: *909# (Airtime: *909*Amount#)
- Ecobank: *326# (Check Balance: *326*0#)
- Keystone Bank: *7111# (Transfer: *7111*Amount*Account#)
- Unity Bank: *7799# (Transfer: *7799*2*Account*Amount#)
- Polaris Bank: *833# (Check Balance: *833*6#)
- Heritage Bank: *745#
- Jaiz Bank: *389*301#
- Lotus Bank: *5045#
- Globus Bank: *989#
Fintech and Mobile Money USSD Codes
In 2026, the lines between traditional banks and fintech companies have blurred. Many Nigerians now use "Neobanks" as their primary accounts. These platforms also offer USSD services to ensure accessibility.
OPay: *955#
OPay has become a lifestyle giant in Nigeria. Their USSD code is essential for those who want to bank without the OPay app.
- Transfer: *955*1*Amount*Account Number#
- Airtime: *955*3*Amount#
PalmPay: *861#
PalmPay's growth has been fueled by its rewards system. Their USSD platform allows for quick participation in these incentives.
- General Menu: Dial *861#
- Transfer: Dial *861*1#
Understanding USSD Charges and Fees in 2026
It is a common misconception that USSD is entirely free. While the banks often advertise "zero-data" banking, there are standard network and service charges that apply to every session.
The Corporate Session Fee
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the CBN reached an agreement several years ago to implement a flat fee for USSD sessions. As of 2026, most banks charge a ₦6.98 fee per USSD transaction. This fee is usually deducted from your bank account, not your airtime balance.
NIBSS Transfer Charges
When you perform a transfer via USSD, the standard NIBSS Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) charges still apply. These are usually tiered:
- Below ₦5,000: ₦10 + VAT
- ₦5,001 – ₦50,000: ₦25 + VAT
- Above ₦50,000: ₦50 + VAT
At NaijaRave, we advise users to bundle their transactions. Instead of making five transfers of ₦1,000, make one transfer of ₦5,000 to save on both the USSD session fee and the transfer charges.
Security Best Practices for USSD Banking
With convenience comes risk. USSD banking is a prime target for "SIM Swap" fraud and phone theft. To protect your hard-earned money, you must be proactive.
1. Set a Strong Transaction PIN
Never use "0000", "1234", or your birth year as your USSD PIN. Most banks allow you to create a unique 4-digit security code. This PIN is different from your ATM PIN. Change it periodically via the "PIN Reset" option on your bank's USSD menu.
2. Block Your Account Immediately if Your Phone is Stolen
Every Nigerian should memorize their bank's "Self-Deactivation" code. If your phone is missing, you don't need to wait to get to a bank. Use any phone to dial the emergency code:
- Zenith Bank: *966*911#
- Access Bank: *901*911#
- First Bank: *894*911#
- GTBank: *737*51*10#
3. Beware of "Fake Alerts"
Always verify your balance using the USSD code (*Account Balance#) rather than relying on a screen notification or an SMS alert from an unknown source. Fraudsters in 2026 use sophisticated "Flash SMS" that mimics official bank alerts.
Conclusion: The Future of Offline Banking
The reliance on USSD codes in Nigeria is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of our financial system. While the world moves toward 100% digital interfaces, the offline reliability of USSD ensures that no Nigerian is left behind in the financial inclusion race.
Whether you are topping up airtime for a loved one or sending emergency funds across the country, these codes are your most reliable allies. Bookmark this guide on NaijaRave so you always have the right string at your fingertips.
