How to Keep Your Nigerian Phone Number Active When Moving Abroad

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TSB News
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Relocating abroad is exciting, but losing access to your long-time Nigerian phone number can be frustrating—especially when it’s tied to your bank accounts, NIN, BVN, WhatsApp, or business contacts.

Thankfully, you don’t have to give up your number when you leave the country. If you’re wondering how to keep your Nigerian SIM card active while abroad, this guide breaks down the steps for MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile users.

Why Keeping Your Nigerian Line Active Matters
Your Nigerian phone number is more than just a contact tool—it’s a digital identity. It’s often linked to:

  • Bank alerts and OTPs

  • WhatsApp verification

  • NIN and BVN records

  • Business and personal contacts

Losing it due to long-term inactivity (usually after 6 months to 2 years, depending on the network) could mean serious setbacks. Luckily, Nigerian telecom providers now offer services that let you retain your number while living overseas.

Here’s how to activate the “Keep My Number” service for each major network.

🟡 MTN: How to Keep Your MTN Line Active Abroad
MTN offers a “Keep My Number” plan to help you retain your SIM while overseas.

Steps:

  1. Dial *365# on your MTN line.

  2. Choose your desired duration (1, 2, or 3 years).

  3. Pay using your airtime balance.

Pro Tip: Set a reminder to renew your subscription before it expires.

Airtel: How to Keep Your Airtel SIM from Expiring Abroad
To keep your Airtel number active while you’re out of Nigeria:

  1. Dial *494#.

  2. Select your preferred duration (up to 3 years).

  3. Pay using available airtime on your SIM.

Ensure you load enough airtime before initiating the subscription.

9mobile: How to Retain Your 9mobile Number Overseas
To prevent your 9mobile line from deactivating:

  1. Dial *539# on your 9mobile SIM.

  2. Select your preferred duration.

  3. Pay as instructed.

If you experience any issues, reach out to 9mobile customer support for help.

Glo: How to Keep Your Glo Line from Being Recycled
For Glo users, here’s how to keep your number active from anywhere in the world:

  1. Dial *312#.

  2. Choose the “Always On” option.

  3. Pay ₦500 for 365 days.

This plan ensures your line stays valid and won’t be recycled, even with long periods of inactivity.

 Bonus Tip: Link Your Line to Your NIN
Before traveling, make sure your SIM is linked to your National Identification Number (NIN). This makes reactivation or troubleshooting much easier should you run into issues abroad.

Final Thoughts: Stay Connected, Even From Afar
Whether you’re studying, working, or starting a new life overseas, keeping your Nigerian phone number active is easy if you take the right steps. Use your network’s “Keep My Number” service, keep track of your renewal date, and stay in control of your communication and digital identity.