In Nigeria, linking your National Identification Number (NIN) to your MTN SIM is no longer optional. It is a mandatory requirement by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for all active mobile lines. In 2025, MTN introduced stricter enforcement, which has led to many subscribers having their lines partially or fully blocked for failing to link their NIN.
If your MTN line has been blocked or you simply want to learn how to link NIN to MTN SIM, this updated guide explains every method available. You will learn how to link your NIN using USSD, SMS, the MTN website, the MTN NIN app, MTN’s customer care, and through a physical MTN outlet.
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Why Your MTN Line Was Blocked
MTN now blocks lines that have not completed NIN verification to prevent identity theft, SIM fraud, and compliance violations. Your line may be:
- Partially barred
- Placed under outgoing call restrictions
- Fully blocked from data and calls
To restore service, you must complete your NIN-SIM linkage.
Documents You Need to Link Your NIN to MTN
Before starting the process, make sure you have:
- Your MTN phone number
- Your 11-digit NIN from NIMC
- A valid identification document (sometimes required for customer care visits)
If you are unsure of your NIN, dial *346#.
How to Link NIN to MTN (2025 Methods)
There are five official ways to link your NIN to your MTN SIM.
1. How to Link NIN to MTN Using USSD Code
This is the fastest method and works even if your MTN SIM is blocked.
USSD Code to Link NIN to MTN:
Dial: *996*Your NIN#
For example: *996*12345678901#
MTN will confirm if your submission was successful.
2. How to Link NIN to MTN via SMS
If your line is partially blocked but can still send messages, you can link your NIN using SMS.
Send a text with the format below: NIN YourNIN MTNNumber
Example: NIN 12345678901 08031234567
Send the message to 785. If successful, MTN will send a confirmation message.
3. How to Link NIN to MTN Online
This method works even if your SIM is blocked.
Step-by-step:
- Open the MTN NIN portal by searching for MTN NIN linking online.
- Enter your MTN phone number.
- Enter the OTP sent to your number.
- Input your 11-digit NIN.
- Submit and wait for confirmation.
This method is recommended for users searching for: how to link NIN to MTN online, how to link NIN to MTN line online, and how do I link my NIN to my MTN SIM.
4. How to Link NIN to MTN Using the MyMTN App
If you have the MyMTN app installed, you can link your NIN in minutes.
Steps:
- Open the MyMTN app.
- Tap Profile or the NIN banner.
- Enter your phone number.
- Input your NIN.
- Submit for verification.
This method helps users searching for: how to link my MTN SIM with NIN, how to link MTN NIN, or how to link MTN to NIN.
5. Visit an MTN Office or NIMC Centre
If your NIN has errors or cannot be verified online, you must visit:
- An MTN service center
- A NIMC enrolment center
Bring:
- Your NIN slip
- Your MTN SIM
- A valid ID
An agent will update your record and link your NIN manually.
This solution is especially important for those asking: how to link NIN to MTN after being blocked, how do I link my MTN line to NIN, or how to link NIN to MTN SIM when online methods fail.
How to Link NIN to MTN After Being Blocked
If your line is already blocked, follow these steps:
Step 1: Dial the USSD Code
Dial the official MTN NIN linking code: *996*NIN#
Step 2: Try the MTN Online Portal
If USSD does not work due to full barring, use the MTN website.
Step 3: Use Another MTN SIM to Receive OTP
If your line cannot receive OTP, MTN allows OTP to be sent to an alternative MTN line (2025 update).
Step 4: Visit MTN Outlet
If your NIN has mismatched details, you must visit an MTN office or NIMC centre to correct your information.
Why Your NIN May Not Link Successfully
Your NIN may fail to link for these reasons:
- Incorrect date of birth
- Wrong spelling of name
- Multiple NINs generated for you
- NIN not fully verified by NIMC
- Network downtime on MTN or NIMC
- Blocked SIM not receiving OTP
In these situations, visiting an MTN office is the most reliable solution.
How to Check If Your NIN Is Linked to MTN
Dial: *996*STATUS#. Or check through the MyMTN app under Profile.
Can You Link Someone Else’s NIN to Your MTN Number?
No. This violates NCC regulations. Your name on your NIN must match the name registered with MTN. You may need to do a SIM registration update if your details do not match.
How Long Does It Take to Link NIN to MTN?
Linking is usually instant. However, full verification by NIMC can take:
- 24 hours
- Up to 3 days during system congestion
If it takes longer than 3 days, repeat the linkage or visit MTN.
Common Questions and Answers
1. How do I link my NIN to MTN quickly?
Dial 996NIN# and submit.
2. How can I link my NIN to my MTN SIM online?
Use the MTN NIN online portal.
3. How do I link my MTN number to NIN if my SIM is blocked?
Try the online portal, then visit MTN if unsuccessful.
4. How do I link my NIN to my MTN line using SMS?
Send your NIN and MTN number to 785.
5. Can I still retrieve my MTN SIM if I lost it and it was not linked?
Yes. Visit an MTN office with your NIN slip and a valid ID.
Conclusion
Linking your NIN to your MTN SIM is essential for keeping your line active under the NCC 2025 directive. Whether your line is active, partially blocked, or fully barred, there are several reliable methods to complete your NIN-SIM linkage. The most effective options include using the MTN USSD code 996, using the online MTN NIN portal, or visiting an MTN service center for full verification.
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