How to link NIN with Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile lines in 2024 Nigeria: A Quick Guide for Mobile Users

Linking your National Identification Number (NIN) to your phone line in Nigeria is now a must. The government has made it clear: no NIN, no service.

You might be wondering how to link your NIN with Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile. Don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think.

Each network has easy ways to link your NIN, often using just your phone’s dialer.

Let’s walk through the steps for each network. Whether you use Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, you’ll find the process quick and painless.

Ready to keep your line active? Let’s get started.

Step-by-step guidance for linking NIN

a) Linking NIN with Airtel

To link your NIN with Airtel, you have several options:

USSD method:

• Dial *121# on your Airtel line
• Select “NIN Capture” from the menu
• Enter your 11-digit NIN
• Submit and wait for a confirmation message

SMS method:

• Text your NIN to 121
• You’ll get a confirmation message once the process is complete

Airtel Nigeria website:

1. Go to Airtel’s official NIN page
2. Enter your phone number
3. You will receive one time pin (OTP) to verify your account
4. Enter your NIN number to link it.
5. Click submit and wait for confirmation

You can also visit any Airtel outlet with your NIN slip for assistance.

Linking NIN with Glo

Glo offers multiple ways to link your NIN:

1. USSD method:

   • Dial *109# on your Glo line
   • Check your NIN status
   • If not registered, you will be redirected to the nearest Glo outlet to register

You can also check your status by texting your NIN number to 109.

Note that it’s no longer possible to link your number without visiting sim registration center.

However, you can still do so via NIMC app.

How to link your NIN to your Glo line using the NIMC app

1. Download the NIMC app: Get the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) app from your phone’s app store.
2. Verify your identity: Open the app and enter your National Identification Number (NIN) or scan the QR code on your NIN slip.
3. Create a PIN: Set up a 6-digit PIN to protect your app.
4. Access the “My Devices” section: On the app’s main screen, go to “My Devices.”
5. Add your Glo number: Select “Add Mobile Number” and enter your Glo phone number.
6. Verify your number: Glo will send a One-Time Password (OTP) to your phone. Enter this OTP to confirm.
7. Confirmation: You’ve successfully linked your NIN to your Glo line!

Note that you can verify NIN numbers for other networks as well using this method

Linking NIN with 9mobile

9mobile provides these options for NIN linking:

1. USSD method:

   • *Dial 996# on your 9mobile line. A menu will appear.
   • Select option 1 to confirm if your NIN is already linked
   • or option 2 to link your NIN.
   • If you choose option 2, you’ll be prompted to enter your 11-digit NIN.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

You can also visit any 9mobile outlet with your NIN slip for assistance.

Troubleshooting common issues

Linking your NIN to your mobile line can sometimes be tricky. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

Wrong NIN format: Make sure you enter your 11-digit NIN correctly. Double-check each number before submitting.

To generate your NIN number use the NIMC app or dial *346#

Network issues: Poor connection can disrupt the linking process. Try moving to an area with better signal or use Wi-Fi if possible.

Outdated app: If you use a mobile app, make sure it’s the latest version. Outdated apps may have bugs that prevent successful linking.

Server overload: During peak times, NIMC servers may be slow. Try again later if you get timeout errors.

Mismatched details: Your NIN info must match your SIM registration details. If they don’t, visit your network provider’s office to update your info.

Blocked SIM: If your SIM is blocked, you’ll need to visit a service center to unblock it before linking.

Multiple attempts: Too many failed attempts might lock you out. Wait a few hours before trying again.

Frequently asked questions

Linking your NIN to your mobile line is important in Nigeria. Here are common questions about the process for different networks.

What should I do if I have been blocked from using my Glo line for not linking my NIN?

If your Glo line is blocked:

1. Visit a Glo service center with your NIN slip
2. Fill out a NIN linking form
3. Provide valid ID
4. Wait for confirmation

Glo may unblock your line within 24 hours after successful linking.

Can I use SMS to link my NIN to my Airtel line, and if so, how?

Yes, you can use SMS for Airtel:

1. Text “NIN [Your 11-digit NIN]” to 996
2. Wait for a confirmation message

This method is quick but may have a small charge.