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Category: Airtel Network

  • How to Buy Data on Airtel Nigeria Under 10 Seconds

    How to Buy Data on Airtel Nigeria Under 10 Seconds

    Airtel Nigeria provides various data plans, ranging from affordable options to large bundles that keep you connected for work, business, or social purposes. However, buying data on Airtel is now more flexible and affordable for all types of subscribers. The key to spending wisely is to know your budget and understanding your data usage. If you watch online videos occasionally, a 3GB monthly plan might offer the best value. However, if you stream content regularly, you may prefer a 6GB plan, which typically costs around N3, 000 (subject to changes).

    How to Buy Data on Airtel Nigeria

    Airtel Data Plans

    Before buying data on the Airtel line, you need to know the suppose plan. Here is a list of  data option Airtel Nigeria offers.

    Plan DurationPrice (Naira)Data AllowanceValidity
    Daily PlansN5040MB1 day
    N100100MB1 day
    N3501GB1 day
    N5002GB1 day
    Weekly PlansN5001GB7 days
    N1,5005GB7 days
    N350350MB7 days
    Monthly PlansN1,0001.2GB30 days
    N1,2001.5GB30 days
    N1,5003GB30 days
    N2,0004.5GB30 days
    N2,5006GB30 days
    N3,00010GB30 days
    N4,00015GB30 days
    N5,00018GB30 days

    For better planning, we recommend monthly bundles, as they allow you to manage your recharges more effectively. Daily plans expire within 24 hours, meaning any unused data will be lost. Weekly plans can be a good choice if you’re on a low budget, while 90-day plans are ideal for businesses or users who want to avoid frequent renewals. For short-term plans, consider setting up auto-renewal to stay connected without interruptions.

    How to Buy Data on Airtel Using Airtime Balance

    If you’ve selected a suitable plan from the list above, ensure that your airtime balance is sufficient to cover the cost. For example, to subscribe to the 1.2GB monthly plan, you’ll need at least N1,000 in airtime on your line. This is the steps to buy data from your airtime talk-time:

    1. Open your dialer app.
    2. Dial *312#.
    3. Select 2 for Data Plans.
    4. Select 3 for Monthly Plans.
    5. Choose 1 (N1, 000 for 1.2GB).
    6. Select 1 to continue browsing when your data finishes, or 2 to stop browsing.
    7. Choose “One-time off” to prevent auto-renewal.

    Once the process is completed, you will receive a confirmation message confirming your 1.2GB subscription.

    Buying Data from Your Bank Account

    To Buy Data via GTBank USSD:

    For example, if you’re using GTBank and want to buy data for your Airtel line, follow these steps:

    1. Dial *737#.
    2. Select 3 for Data Plans.
    3. To buy for you, select 1 and choose the desired data bundle.
    4. To buy for someone else, select 2, enter the recipient’s phone number, and then choose a data plan.

    Once you complete these steps, the payment will be deducted from your bank account, and the data will be activated instantly.

    Note: When purchasing data via your bank, the system automatically detects the mobile network of the provided phone number and displays the available data plans for that network. Hence. you can also top-up data for other mobile network as well using bank balance.

    Most Nigerian banks offer USSD services to buy data. Below are some common USSD codes for different banks:

    Bank NameUSSD Code
    First Bank*894*2#
    GTBank (GTB)*737*4#
    Zenith Bank*966#
    FCMB*329*1*Data_Amount*Phone_Number#
    Union Bank*826*9#
    Keystone Bank*7111*5#
    UBA Bank*919*14#
    Wema Bank*945*9#
    Polaris Bank*833#
    Stanbic Bank*909#
    Access Bank*901#
    Ecobank*326#
    Fidelity Bank*770#

    FAQ

    What is the code to buy data on Airtel? To purchase data on the Airtel network, dial *312# and follow the on-screen prompts to choose your preferred data plan.

    What is the Cheapest Airtel Data Plan? Among the monthly plans, the most affordable option is ₦1,000 for 1.2GB. However, this may not be sufficient for heavy internet users. A more cost-effective choice is ₦4,000 for 15GB, which offers better value and reduces the need for frequent data subscriptions.

    Can I buy data for someone else from my bank account? Yes, you can! When you dial your bank’s USSD code (e.g., *894# for First Bank), follow these steps:

    1. Dial *894#.
    2. Select 3, and then choose “3rd Party”.
    3. Enter the recipient’s mobile number.
    4. Select a data plan from the available options.

    The person will receive the data immediately, and your account will be debited.

    Will I pay a service charge for buying data via my bank’s USSD? Yes, banks usually charge a fee when you buy data or airtime using mobile banking USSD codes. The fee typically ranges between N6 to N10.

    If I mistakenly buy data for the wrong phone number, can I get a refund? No, refunds are not possible for incorrect data purchases. That’s why it’s important to double-check the phone number before confirming the transaction.

    Can I buy data for any mobile network number from my bank? Yes, you can purchase data for any mobile network, including MTN, Airtel, 9mobile (Etisalat), and Glo, using your bank’s USSD service.

  • How to Borrow Data from MTN, Airtel, Glo, & 9Mobile

    How to Borrow Data from MTN, Airtel, Glo, & 9Mobile

    Here’s some good news! Did you know that you can borrow data from your mobile network and pay later? If you didn’t, now you do. Today, I’ll show you how to borrow data from MTN, Glo, Airtel, and Mobile9.

    Telecom companies in Nigeria allow subscribers to borrow data whenever they run out of their plan. This service helps keep you connected in case you run out of data in the middle of something important but don’t have enough money to recharge right away.

    It doesn’t matter which network you’re on. MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile all offer this feature to eligible customers (those who qualify to borrow data).

    How to Borrow Data from MTN, Airtel, Glo, & 9Mobile

    What Is Data Borrowing?

    Simply put, it’s a data loan from your mobile network to be paid back later when you recharge. It’s similar to borrowing money from someone, with the expectation that you’ll repay according to the agreement. While the terms of the data borrowing agreement might not be clearly visible during a USSD transaction, it’s important to know that the borrowed data will be deducted from your next airtime top-up. Additionally, there is a service charge for data borrowing. However, you must meet certain qualifications in order to apply for a data loan.

    How Do You Know If You Qualify To Borrow From Your Network?

    If you’ve recharged at least three times in a month, with a minimum of 200 Naira or more, you’ll be eligible. In simple terms, the more often you recharge each month, the higher your chances of getting data loans, which will be deducted from your next recharge.

    But don’t worry, you’ll know for sure if you’re eligible as soon as you start the process. Your network provider will let you know whether you qualify or not.

    How to Borrow Data on MTN Network Nigeria

    MTN, the largest mobile telecommunications network in Nigeria, allows subscribers to borrow data through a USSD code or their mobile app. The special code for borrowing data is *303#.

    Steps to Borrow Data via USSD:

    1. Dial *303# on your phone.
    2. Select “Borrow Data” from the prompt.
    3. If you are eligible, a list of available data plans will appear.
    4. Choose the data plan you want and press “Send.”
    5. You will receive a message confirming that your request is being processed, and the data will be credited to your account shortly.

    Alternatively, via the MyMTN App:

    1. Download and install the MyMTN app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
    2. Use your phone number to log in to the app. You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) to confirm your login.
    3. On the dashboard, click on the “Borrow” option in the menu.
    4. Then, click on “Borrow Data,” choose from the available offers, and click “Send” to receive your data.

    Borrowing Data from 9mobile

    The same USSD code is used to borrow data from the 9mobile, usually known as Etisalat network. To do so, follow these steps:

    1. On your phone, dial *303#.
    2. Select “Borrow Data” from the prompt.
    3. Choose the loan amount from the available options. (Note: A 15% service charge will apply.)

    4. You will receive a message confirming that your line has been credited with the data.

    Alternatively, using the 9mobile app. Here’s how:

    1. Download and install the app.
    2. Log in with your mobile number.
    3. From the menu, click “Borrow” and follow the prompts to get your data.

    How to Borrow Data from Airtel Nigeria

    If your recharge history qualifies, you may be eligible to borrow data from the Airtel network. Here’s how to give it a try:

    1. Dial *303# from your Airtel SIM.
    2. Select option 4 (“Borrow Data”). A list of available data bundles will be displayed if you qualify for a data loan. If you don’t qualify, the option will not appear.
    3. Choose your preferred data plan, and your Airtel SIM will be credited with the corresponding data. (Note: A 15% service charge will apply.)

    Alternatively, you can load data using the Airtel mobile app:

    1. Open the Airtel app.
    2. Locate the “Borrow” option on the interface.
    3.  From the menu displayed, choose the data offer you want, and you will be credited immediately.

    How to Borrow Data on Glo

    To borrow data on the Glo network, you need to be active for at least three months and have made at least 200 recharges in the past month. Once you dial *321# the Glo code to borrow data, your eligibility will be checked.

    Follow these steps to quickly get your data on the Glo network:

    1. Dial *321#.
    2. Select option 3 (“Borrow Data”).
    3. If you qualify, choose your preferred data plan from the available options.
    4. Click “Send” to confirm the process.
    5. Wait for a confirmation message that your account has been credited with the selected data amount.
    Most Frequently Asked Questions

    Is There A Time Frame To Pay For Borrowed Data?

    There is no specific time frame for repayment. It is pay-as-you-recharge. Even if you top up your account for a year, your network provider will not remind you about the loan. However, once you load your account with talk time, an automatic deduction will be made to settle the loan.

    What Is The Ussd Code For Borrowing Data In Nigeria?

    The Nigerian government has standardized the USSD code service for mobile networks. As such, *312# is the new general code for borrowing data across all mobile networks. Dial the code, follow the menu, navigate to “borrow data,” and if eligible, apply for approval.

    Can I Borrow Again If I Have Borrowed Before?

    Yes, you can apply for a data loan again as long as you haven’t exhausted your borrowing limit.

    Conclusion:

    I prefer using the USSD code to borrow data from any of the mobile networks in Nigeria. The USSD process is straightforward; with just a few steps, you can quickly check if you qualify to borrow data. If you qualify, congratulations! All you need to do next is complete your request, and the data will be credited to your SIM. Typically, a 15% fee is charged on the amount borrowed, but this will be added to the total repayment and may not be immediately noticeable.

    The respective data borrow codes for the various networks discussed above are:

    • 312# for MTN, Airtel, and 9Mobile
    • 321# for Glo

    Once you dial any of these codes, follow the on-screen prompts to get your data loan.

  • How to Cancel Auto Renewal on Airtel: The Best Method

    How to Cancel Auto Renewal on Airtel: The Best Method

    Is Airtel deducting your airtime for data? Do you know what that means? If not, it’s known as data auto-renewal. Many people face this unwanted airtime deduction, and it can be even more frustrating if you’re on a weekly data plan, as another deduction will occur within seven days for automatic data subscription. But the good news is, today you’ll learn how to cancel auto renewal on Airtel using your mobile phone. Once you unsubscribe, there will be no more ‘ghost renewals’ on your line. From then on, any airtime you load will remain in your account, and no deductions will happen. As we continue, please be patient and read through every detail shared here to avoid future occurrences of auto-renewal.

    How to Cancel Auto Renewal on Airtel: The Best Method

    What is Airtel Data Auto Renewal?

    This is a feature available on the network that helps customers purchase data without manually activating the process. If you have activated the service on your SIM for a particular data plan, it becomes registered on the Airtel network. At the end of the validity period for your data bundle, auto-renewal will activate if there is enough balance to purchase the initial data plan. The equivalent airtime will then be deducted from your balance.

    As a result, some Airtel subscribers are unaware that they have activated auto-renewal. Users may inadvertently enable the service when purchasing data. There is a stage during the data top-up process where you will be asked to choose between “One Time” and “Auto Renew.” Sometimes, you may unknowingly choose the auto-renewal option over the one-time subscription. When this happens, auto-renewal is activated and will trigger when your current data expires.

    What is the Benefit of Auto-Renewal?

    The importance cannot be overemphasized. If you have the capacity in terms of funds, there is no need to manually buy data every time. You can set up auto-renewal on your line to automatically renew your data subscription. This will also protect you from being cut off from internet service due to insufficient data. However, if you plan to opt for automatic data subscription, be sure to check your airtime balance regularly and top up when it is low to ensure you have enough credit for the renewal deduction.

    Airtel Auto-Renewal Drawback

    It’s not easy to bear when a sudden deduction occurs from your airtime. This is especially true for customers who are unaware that auto-renewal was set up. It can be painful because you might have important calls for which you budgeted your credit, or you may want to manage your talk time for a while before recharging again. Of course, with the tough economic situation in Nigeria, planning is key.

    So, what is the solution if you are tired of sudden deductions from your talk time balance?

    How to Cancel Auto Renewal on Airtel

    Whether you knowingly or unknowingly subscribed to auto renewal on Airtel, you can undo it. The way forward is to cancel or deactivate the feature from your SIM using any of the methods explained below.

    To turn-off auto-renewal using USSD:

    1. Open your phone’s dialer.
    2. Dial *312#.
    3. Select “Data Plan.”
    4. Choose any data plan. Since the goal is to stop the auto-renewal, you can select a daily plan and subscribe to the least data plan available.
    5. During the subscription process, you will be asked whether you want to renew or make it a one-time subscription. Make sure to select the “one-time” option.
    6. After subscribing, any pending auto-renewals on your line will be cancelled.

    Note: Using the USSD method might leave you with some doubt about whether the auto-renewal has been canceled. Don’t worry; the process of canceling auto-renewal on Airtel can be complex. Some guides will tell you to dial various codes or send SMS to a particular number, but that is not accurate. I recently called Airtel customer care to verify the process for canceling auto-renewal. The method I explained above was recommended. While it works, it might seem a bit awkward because you’re asked to subscribe again in order to cancel the renewal.

    For guaranteed cancellation, the best method is to contact Airtel customer care directly:

    1. Dial 300.
    2. Follow the automated voice prompts.
    3. When asked, select option 1.
    4. When prompted to speak with a customer care representative, select option 9. You will be connected to an agent within a minute.
    5. Inform the agent that you want to cancel your data auto-renewal. They will ask you to provide the phone number for which you want the auto-renewal canceled.
    6. The representative will cancel the auto-renewal and send you a confirmation message.

    Conclusion:

    I understand how frustrating it can be when auto-renewal depletes your leftover airtime, especially when it happens unexpectedly. This is a common issue for many people. With a sense of brotherly and sisterly love, the guide above explains how to stop Airtel’s data renewal on your line. Honestly, the USSD code can be a bit tricky, so I recommend calling customer care at 300. Within five minutes, you’ll no longer have to worry about unnecessary renewals when you recharge again.