Before you start
- The phone number you want to top up
- A way to pay: card, mobile money, bank app, airtime balance or a voucher
Method 1 Use your network’s app or website
Network apps often show bundles and bonuses that aren’t on the USSD menu.
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Step 1: Install the official app
Download your network’s app from Google Play or the App Store (for example the MTN, Airtel, Vodafone or Safaricom app). Check the developer name so you don’t install a copycat.
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Step 2: Choose airtime or data
Tap Buy airtime, Recharge or Buy data, and choose a bundle.
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Step 3: Enter the number
Choose For another number (or type a different number) if it’s a gift, then pay with your card, bank account or airtime balance.
Method 2 Dial your network’s USSD menu
In Nigeria, the regulator (NCC) set the same codes on every network: *311# to recharge, *312# to buy data, *321# to share airtime or data, and *303# to borrow.
Method 3 Pay with mobile money or a bank app
This is often the easiest way to top up a number on a different network from yours.
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Step 1: Open the app or menu
Open your mobile money app or USSD menu (such as M-PESA, MTN MoMo or Airtel Money) or your banking app.
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Step 2: Choose Airtime or Data
Select Airtime, Buy bundles or Top-up, then the network if asked.
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Step 3: Enter the number and confirm
Choose My number or Other number, enter the amount and confirm with your PIN.
Method 4 Use a recharge voucher
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Step 1: Buy a card
Buy a recharge card or printed voucher from a shop or agent and scratch off the PIN.
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Step 2: Load it
Dial the recharge code printed on the card with the PIN, for example *311*PIN# in Nigeria, then press call.
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Step 3: Load it for someone else
Many networks let you add the other person’s number to the code. Check the instructions on the card, or send the PIN to them by text.
| Method | Best for | Works for other networks? |
|---|---|---|
| Network app or website | Bundle deals, paying by card | No, only that network |
| USSD menu | Any phone, no internet needed | No, only that network |
| Mobile money or bank app | Topping up anyone | Usually yes |
| Voucher | Paying cash | Only the network on the card |
Troubleshooting
I paid but didn’t receive the airtime or data
Wait a few minutes and check your balance. If it still hasn’t arrived, keep the transaction reference and contact your network or bank. Failed bank or mobile money payments are usually reversed automatically.
The data bundle finished too quickly
Background apps and video use the most data. Turn off auto-play and background data, and check which apps use the most in your phone’s data usage settings.
Frequently asked questions
Can I transfer airtime to a different network?
Not directly. Airtime sharing only works between lines on the same network. To top up someone on another network, use mobile money, a bank app or an online top-up service.
Can I buy data for someone in another country?
Yes, with international top-up services and some mobile money apps. Compare the exchange rate and fees before you pay.
Summary
For your own line, the network app or USSD menu is quickest. To top up someone else, use the app’s Buy for others option, your mobile money or bank app, or the network’s share menu. Always check the number before you confirm.
