How to Check If Your MTN Number Is Linked to NIN – Complete Guide

How to check if your MTN number is linked to NIN, MTN NIN linking, check MTN NIN status, MTN NIN code, how to know if MTN line is linked to NIN, MTN NIN verification, link MTN SIM to NIN.
If you use MTN in Nigeria, one of the most important things you must do is link your MTN number to your NIN (National Identification Number). This is a compulsory requirement from the Nigerian government through NIMC for all mobile networks.
The challenge is that many MTN users do not know whether their line is linked or not. Some linked it years ago but are not sure if it was successful. Others tried linking but did not receive confirmation. And some are afraid their lines may soon be blocked.
The good news is that MTN has provided simple and fast ways to check your NIN–SIM linkage status using USSD, SMS, MTN App, and the MTN website.
This article explains everything in a clear, easy-to-understand way, even if you are not tech-savvy.
How to Check If Your MTN Number Is Linked to NIN Using USSD Code
This is the fastest and most reliable method.
*USSD Code: 996#
Steps:
- Dial *996# on your MTN line.
- Select “NIN-SIM Link Status” or “Check NIN Status” (menu options may vary).
- MTN will show you if your line is already linked or not.
- If it is linked, you will see a confirmation message.
- If not linked, MTN will ask you to enter your NIN immediately.
This USSD code works without internet and on all phones, including small button phones.
How to Check Your MTN NIN Status Using the MTN NIN Portal
MTN has an online portal where users can confirm if their line is linked.
Steps:
- Visit the MTN NIN Portal (MTN official site).
- Enter your MTN phone number.
- You will receive an OTP (one-time password).
- Enter the OTP to verify your identity.
- Your NIN-SIM status will be displayed.
If your MTN SIM is linked, you will see a “Successfully Linked” message.
If not, you will be asked to provide your NIN.
How to Check If Your MTN Number Is Linked to NIN Using MyMTN App
If you have a smartphone, this method is very easy.
Steps:
- Download MyMTN NG App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Log in with your MTN number.
- Go to “My Profile” or “NIN Management” section.
- You will see your NIN-SIM status.
If your line is linked, it will display a message like:
“Your MTN number is linked to NIN: XXXXXXXX.”
If not linked, you will see an instruction asking you to submit your NIN.
How to Check If Your MTN Number Is Linked by Text Message
MTN sends SMS alert messages when you successfully link your NIN.
You can check your old messages to confirm.
Search your SMS inbox for keywords like:
- NIN linked
- SIM registration successful
- Your MTN number is now linked
- NIMC verification successful
If you find the message, it means your number was linked earlier.
If you can’t find the message, use the USSD code to confirm.
How to Check MTN NIN Link Status via MTN Customer Care
Another simple way to check your NIN status is by contacting customer care.
MTN Customer Care Number: 300
Steps:
- Dial 300
- Choose the option to speak to an MTN customer care agent.
- Ask them: “I want to confirm if my MTN number is linked to my NIN.”
- They may ask you to confirm:
- Your full name
- Last recharge amount
- Last 3 dialed numbers
- They will then tell you if the number is linked or not.
This option is helpful if the USSD code is not working.
How to Check If Your MTN SIM Is Linked to NIN Using NIMC Verification (Official Method)
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) also provides a way to check if your NIN is properly verified.
Steps:
- Visit the NIMC Verification Portal.
- Enter your NIN.
- Verify with your surname.
- Confirm your SIM registration status.
If MTN has successfully verified your NIN, it will reflect on your dashboard.
This method is more official but works best when MTN servers update your information.
How to Know If Your MTN Line Is Not Linked to NIN
If your MTN SIM is not linked, you may see messages like:
- *“Your line is not linked to NIN. Dial 996# to link.”
- “NIN update required.”
- “Incomplete registration. Submit your NIN.”
- “Your outgoing calls have been barred due to NIN issues.”
If you receive any of these, it means your line is not linked.
Why It Is Important to Link Your MTN SIM to NIN
Linking your SIM to NIN is compulsory because:
- It prevents SIM card fraud
- It protects your identity
- It helps the government verify users
- It reduces criminal activities
- MTN may block unlinked lines
In , MTN is strictly enforcing this rule. If your line is not linked, you may:
- Lose access to MTN services
- Be unable to make calls
- Be unable to receive calls
- Be unable to buy data
- Or even get your line permanently blocked
So you must check your status and link your NIN if needed.
What to Do If Your MTN Line Is Not Linked to NIN
If your number is not yet linked, follow the steps below:
Method 1: Link with USSD
Dial: *996*NIN#
Example:
If your NIN is 12345678900
Dial: *996*12345678900#
Method 2: Link on MTN NIN Portal
Submit your NIN and MTN phone number.
Method 3: Link in MyMTN App
Go to “NIN Management” and enter your NIN.
Method 4: Visit MTN Office
Carry:
- NIN slip
- A valid ID
- Your MTN SIM
MTN will capture your biometrics and complete the linking.
How to Avoid NIN Verification Problems
If your NIN is not linking successfully, here are possible causes:
- Incorrect NIN
- Wrong name on SIM
- Poor network
- NIMC server delay
- Incomplete NIN registration
To fix these issues:
- Use the correct NIN from your slip
- Ensure your MTN SIM details match your NIN details
- Visit MTN office to update your information
- Check NIMC center to correct spelling or date of birth
- Wait if the server is down
Checking if your MTN number is linked to your NIN in is very easy.
The fastest method is:
*Dial 996# and select “Check NIN Status.”
You can also confirm through:
- MTN NIN Portal
- MyMTN App
- SMS notifications
- MTN customer care (300)
- NIMC verification portal
If your line is not yet linked, link it immediately to avoid being blocked.
Read Also: How to Check Your MTN Number 2025 – Fastest and Easiest Methods for All Devices