HOW-TO

How to Link Your NIN to Your Phone Number (SIM)

How to satisfy Nigeria's mandatory NIN-SIM linkage yourself, for free, on any network.

Step by step

1. Confirm your NINBefore linking, be sure of your 11-digit NIN. Dial *346# from your registered SIM, or check your NIMC slip or the NIMC MobileID app.
2. Dial *996# from the line to linkOn the SIM you want to link, dial *996# and follow the prompts. You can also try *996*YourNIN#. This universal code is free per the NCC.
3. Enter your NIN and submitType your 11-digit NIN carefully and submit it so your operator can send it to NIMC for validation.
4. Wait for validationYour network checks the NIN against the NIMC database. This can be instant or take a short while.
5. Confirm the linkYou will get an SMS from your operator when linking succeeds. You can also re-dial *996# to check the status.

Why linking matters

The NIN-SIM linkage rule ties every phone line to a verified identity. If a line you use is not linked to your NIN, your operator can restrict outgoing calls or, in time, suspend the SIM, so it is worth doing for each line you own. Linking is separate from having a NIN in the first place, so you must already have your NIN before you can link it.

What you need first

You need your correct 11-digit NIN and the SIM you want to link, in your own phone. If you are unsure of the number, check your NIN before you start so you do not submit a wrong one. Repeat the linking on each line you own.

The universal code or operator channels?

The NCC lists *996# as the single code that works across MTN, Glo, Airtel and 9mobile, and it is free to use. Individual operators sometimes publish their own USSD strings or apps as well, but the universal code keeps things simple and avoids confusion. Some services may ask for a Virtual NIN, a temporary token you generate from the NIMC MobileID app, rather than your raw number, so generate it yourself when needed.

If linking fails

The most common cause is a mistyped NIN, so re-check the digits and try again. Make sure you are dialling from the line you actually want to link. If the network still cannot validate it, your NIMC record may need attention, so visit a NIMC centre. And if you ever lost the number you originally registered with NIMC, you may first need to retrieve your NIN before you can link a new line.

SabiGuide is an independent guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Fees, links and steps can change — always confirm on the official portal before you act. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.