Are you low on credit and need to borrow airtime instantly? Or did you forget the USSD code for quick access? Don’t stress—it happens to everyone. Running out of airtime is never convenient, especially during urgent calls or essential texts.
As of March 2024, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) unified USSD codes across all mobile networks. Before then, each network had its own set of codes. But now, the process is streamlined.
MTN, GLO, Airtel, and 9Mobile users now share the same codes for basic actions like checking balances, buying data, or contacting support.
In this updated guide, you’ll learn how to borrow airtime credit from MTN, GLO, Airtel, and 9Mobile easily and efficiently.
How To Borrow Airtime From All Major Networks In Nigeria
Borrowing airtime is simple and can be done via USSD, the provider’s official mobile app, or through customer service. However, you must have your NIN linked to your mobile number with MTN, GLO, Airtel, or 9Mobile before you can access this service.
Here’s a breakdown by network:
How To Borrow Airtime From MTN
MTN users can borrow airtime using the *303# USSD code, the MTN mobile app, or by speaking with a customer support agent.
How To Borrow Airtime From MTN Using USSD Code
Previously, the code was *600#, but the new standardized USSD code is:
- *Dial 303#
- Select “Borrow Airtime”
- Choose an amount
- Confirm your request
You’ll instantly receive an SMS confirming the borrowed amount, which will be credited to your ExtraTime account.
How To Borrow Airtime From MTN Via The MTN App
To use the MTN app:
- Log into the MTN App
- Tap Borrow
- Select Airtime
- Choose an amount based on your eligibility
- Review the service fee
- Tap Accept to confirm
The airtime will be credited, and you’ll receive an in-app notification and SMS. MTN charges a 15% service fee on all borrowed airtime, deducted upfront.
Eligibility Check:
Dial *303#, go to Account > Eligibility Status, or text STATUS to 303.
How To Borrow Airtime From MTN Via Customer Support
- Dial 300
- Follow the voice prompts or speak with an agent to request airtime.
How To Borrow Airtime From Airtel
Airtel customers can borrow airtime using *303#, the myAirtel App, or by calling customer support.
How To Borrow Airtime From Airtel Using USSD Code
The former code was *500#. Now:
- *Dial 303#
- Select Borrow Credit
- Pick your desired amount (eligibility-based)
- Confirm your request
Check Eligibility via *303#, then select Eligibility and Help > Eligibility
How To Borrow Airtime From Airtel Via myAirtel App
- Open the myAirtel App
- Tap Borrow Airtime
- Choose from the available options
- Tap Confirm
You’ll be credited immediately if you’re eligible.
Note: You must be an active prepaid Airtel user for at least 3 months and recharge a minimum of ₦200 monthly. A 15% service fee is charged upfront.
How To Borrow Airtime From Airtel Via Customer Support
- Dial 300
- Follow the prompts to connect with an agent
How To Borrow Airtime From GLO
GLO subscribers can borrow airtime using *303# or the Glo Cafe App.
How To Borrow Airtime From GLO Using USSD Code
The old code *321# has been replaced. Now:
- *Dial 303#
- Choose “Borrow Credit”
- Select the amount you need
- Confirm
How To Borrow Airtime From GLO Using The Glo Cafe App
- Log into the Glo Cafe App
- Tap Show All
- Choose Borrow Me
- Select the airtime amount
- Tap Subscribe to confirm
You’ll get a notification once credited.
Eligibility: Active use for at least 4 months is required. Repayment is automatic upon your next recharge. GLO also deducts a 15% service fee from the loan amount.
How To Borrow Airtime From 9Mobile
9Mobile users can borrow airtime using *303# or through the 9Mobile app.
How To Borrow Airtime From 9Mobile Using USSD Code
Previously, users dialed 665amount#, but that’s changed. Now:
- *Dial 303#
- Select Borrow Airtime
- Choose a loan amount
- Confirm the request
How To Borrow Airtime From 9Mobile Via The 9Mobile App
- Open the 9Mobile app
- Tap the menu (☰)
- Select Borrow Airtime
- Pick an amount based on eligibility
- Tap Confirm
You’ll be credited instantly, minus the 15% service charge.
Eligibility: Must have used the SIM for at least 3 months and recharge ₦200 or more monthly. Dial *303# to check if you’re eligible.
How To Pay Back Borrowed Airtime On MTN, GLO, Airtel And 9Mobile
Repaying borrowed airtime is automatic. Once you recharge, the system deducts the owed amount immediately—including the 15% service fee.
For example, if you borrow ₦500, you’ll receive ₦425. Upon your next top-up, ₦500 will be deducted.
Airtime Balance on Any Network
You can always check your airtime balance using the unified USSD code for your network or via the mobile app for quick access.
Frequently Asked Questions About Borrowing Airtime Credit
1. How Much Can I Borrow?
Your credit limit is based on your network’s policy and your usage history. Dial *303# to check.
2. Can I Use Borrowed Airtime to Buy Data?
Yes. Most networks allow you to purchase data using borrowed airtime. You can also borrow data directly by dialing *303#.
3. Can I Borrow Airtime If I Still Owe?
MTN and 9Mobile allow borrowing if you’re within your limit. GLO and Airtel require full repayment before issuing new loans.
4. What Happens If I Don’t Repay?
Each network has different policies:
- GLO: Disqualifies you until the loan is repaid.
- MTN: You may still borrow if under the credit limit.
- Non-repayment may lower your credit score or borrowing eligibility.
5. How Do I Borrow Data on These Networks?
Use the same process as airtime:
- Dial *303#
- Choose Borrow Data
- Confirm your request
You can also use the respective mobile apps.
6. Can I Repay Even If I Didn’t Use the Borrowed Airtime?
Yes. Repayment happens automatically when you recharge—even if the borrowed airtime remains unused. The service fee still applies.
Conclusion
Borrowing airtime in Nigeria has never been easier. With the unified *303# USSD code and mobile apps, users across MTN, GLO, Airtel, and 9Mobile can borrow airtime anytime, anywhere.
Just ensure your SIM is active, your NIN is linked, and you’ve met your provider’s eligibility criteria. Remember, a 15% service fee is deducted from the borrowed amount upfront.
So the next time you run out of credit, simply dial *303# or open your network’s app—and borrow airtime instantly!