MTN Nigeria has officially rolled out new USSD codes for airtime recharge and data bundle activation—an update aimed at simplifying customer experience and reducing the confusion many users faced with older codes.
As one of Nigeria’s largest telecom operators, serving over 92 million active lines and generating more than ₦500 billion in revenue in the first quarter of 2023, MTN says the change is part of a broader effort to streamline its services and make transactions faster and easier for subscribers.
MTN Introduces New Recharge Code: 311#
If you’ve been using 555 to load airtime on your MTN line, it’s time to update your habit.
MTN has announced that the new official recharge activation code is *311*rechargepin#.
This means instead of dialing something like:
*555*123456789012345#
You will now dial:
*311*123456789012345#
MTN says the goal is to unify USSD codes across networks and make it easier for customers to remember the correct code.
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New MTN Data Bundle Activation Code: 312#
Another major update affects data bundle purchases. The popular *131# code has now been replaced by *312#.
So if you want to buy data, check data balance, or explore MTN’s data plans, simply dial *312# going forward.
According to MTN, this switch is designed to create a consistent and user-friendly experience for customers who rely heavily on mobile data for work, entertainment, and social connections.
MTN’s Official Messages to Customers
Many subscribers received SMS notifications from MTN explaining the change. The messages read:
- **“Dear Customer, You can now buy data bundles using 312# instead of 131#. We encourage you to start using the new code for your convenience. Thank you for choosing MTN.”
- “Dear Customer, this is to inform you of a change in our recharge activation code. You can now recharge your lines using 311rechargepin# instead of 555rechargepin#. We encourage you to start using the new code for your convenience. Thank you for choosing MTN.”
Why MTN Updated Its USSD Codes
The changes are part of an industry-wide effort by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to harmonize USSD codes across all mobile networks. The idea is simple: whether you’re using MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, you’ll eventually use the same set of codes for similar services.
This means easier navigation for customers and less confusion—especially for Nigerians who use multiple lines.
Quick Summary of the New MTN Codes
| Service | Old Code | New Code |
|---|---|---|
| Airtime Recharge | 555PIN# | *311*PIN# |
| Data Bundle Activation | *131# | *312# |
What MTN Users Should Do Next
If you’re an MTN subscriber, start using the new codes immediately. The old codes may still work for now, but they will eventually be phased out.
To avoid errors or failed transactions:
- Update the codes in your head (yes, muscle memory is real!)
- Share the new codes with family and friends who may not be aware
- Check MTN’s official channels for more updates
The transition is simple, and once you get used to dialing *311# and *312#, everything becomes second nature again.
