How to Change Phone Number on Bank Account in Nigeria
EXCERPT: Changing the number on your account is simple. Changing the one on your BVN now happens only once. Here is how to do both.
INTRODUCTION
Your bank sends an OTP, and it goes to a number you haven’t used in two years.
You tap resend. You wait. Nothing, because that SIM is sitting in a drawer, or barred, or now belongs to a stranger. You’re locked out of your own money, and the only reason is a phone number.
It’s a common problem, and it’s fixable. But there’s a catch worth knowing: since 1 May 2026, you can change the number on your BVN only once.
Here’s how to change a phone number on a bank account in Nigeria, how it differs from changing your BVN number, and what to do so you only have to do it once. I will also show you what to bring to the branch and how to stay safe from SIM swap tricks.
Let’s start with the part that trips most people up. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan and no surprises at the counter.
Two Different Phone Numbers: Your Account and Your BVN
Most people think they have one phone number at the bank. In reality, you may have two.
Your bank may hold a number in your account profile, while a separate number sits on your BVN record. Changing one doesn’t automatically change the other.
That matters because both do jobs. The account number usually gets your alerts and app logins. The BVN number is what NIBSS uses to verify you, and it’s the one that works with codes like *565*0#.
The same guide warns against assuming that the number shown in your banking app is the one attached to your BVN. If you’re unsure, ask your bank to confirm the BVN-linked number.
The New One-Change Rule for BVN Phone Numbers
This is the part that changes the game. CBN amendments to BVN operations took effect on 1 May 2026. Under them, you can update your BVN-linked phone number only once.
Legit.ng says the policy targets SIM-swap fraud, where criminals take over a phone number to get into bank accounts.
Once your one change is used, further changes will likely involve more hurdles.
So choose the new number carefully. Linki your BVN to a secure, long-term number, preferably one already tied to your NIN.
Not sure whether you’ve already used your change? Ask your bank before you start.
What to Bring Before You Change Your Phone Number
A little preparation saves you a second trip. Gather these first:
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- A valid ID. A national ID card, international passport, driver’s licence or voter’s card usually works.
- Your BVN. Dial *565*0# on your registered line, or ask the bank to look it up.
- Your new SIM, active and ready. The bank may send an OTP to it.
- Your account details.
- Proof of the new number, if the bank asks for it.
Some banks ask for an affidavit if your old number is permanently lost. Ask the bank what it needs in your case.
Make sure the new SIM is linked to your NIN before you start. The number should ideally be tied to it, and NCC rules require SIMs to be NIN-linked anyway.
How to Change Phone Number on Bank Account in Nigeria at a Branch
This is the route that works for almost everyone. It’s also the one the sources agree on.
- Go to your bank. Choose the bank where you hold your main account, ideally the one where your BVN was enrolled.
- Ask for the right form. Say clearly that you want a “BVN-linked phone number update” as well as an update to your account contact details.
- Fill in the old and new numbers. Write your BVN, account number and both numbers.
- Show your ID and submit the form.
- Confirm the new number. The bank may send an OTP to it, or call to verify.
- Ask for a confirmation. Get a slip, reference or email.
How long it takes depends on the bank. Ask how long yours will take, and what you’ll see when it’s done.
Can You Change a Bank Phone Number in the App or Online
For your BVN number, no. You can’t update a BVN phone number online, through an app or via USSD. It adds that any website or app offering an online BVN phone change isn’t legitimate.
For the number on your account profile, it depends on the bank. Some let you update contact details inside the app, while others want you at a branch. Look for a “Profile” or “Update details” option, and ask customer care if it’s missing.
Even if the app lets you change the account number, don’t assume the BVN number has changed. Ask for both.
What to Do if You’ve Lost the Old SIM or Can’t Receive OTPs
Can’t receive codes on the old number? You’re not stuck. You just need the branch.
Take your ID and explain that you no longer have access to the number. The bank will tell you which documents it needs, and Androidpols says that may include an affidavit when the old number is permanently lost.
Get your SIM replaced too, if you want the old number back. Visit your network’s service centre with your NIN and ID. If the number was reassigned to someone else, tell your bank, so alerts don’t reach a stranger.
Don’t wait until you’re locked out. Techcrier suggests fixing the number now if you’re using a borrowed SIM or an old number you can’t access.
After You Change Your Number: Updates You Shouldn’t Skip
Changing the number is only half the job. Finish the rest.
Check that it worked. Make a small transaction or request an OTP, and confirm the alert reaches your new phone.
Re-register your apps. Mobile banking and USSD are tied to your number. You may need to set up your app and USSD PIN again on the new line. The new CBN guidelines include one-device access for banking apps, so ask your bank what that means for you.
Update every other bank. Asking each bank where you hold an account whether the account phone number also needs updating.
Update wallets and loan apps. Fintech wallets and lenders use your number too, so update them where you can.
How to Stay Safe From SIM Swap Fraud
The one-change rule exists because SIM swap fraud is real. Here’s how to protect yourself.
If your phone suddenly loses signal for no reason, call your network and your bank right away. It can be a sign someone has taken over your number.
Never share an OTP, a PIN or your BVN with anyone, even someone who says they’re from your bank. And never tap a link in a message that says you must “update your phone number” online. Your bank can’t change a BVN number that way.
Keep your SIM active and your number in your own name. A number you can reliably access is your best protection.
Common Mistakes When Changing Your Bank Phone Number
Updating only the account, not the BVN. You’ll still get stuck on NIBSS checks. Ask for both.
Choosing a temporary or borrowed SIM. With only one change allowed, pick a number you’ll keep for years.
Using a SIM that isn’t NIN-linked. It can cause trouble later, and it goes against NCC rules.
Trusting online BVN update sites. No legitimate online option exists. Anything that claims otherwise is a red flag.
Forgetting your other banks. One update doesn’t cover every account. List them all and update each.
Wrapping Up
Pick the number you’ll keep for years and make sure it’s linked to your NIN. Then take your ID and BVN to your bank and ask for both updates, account and BVN.
Check that the first OTP arrives, and update every other bank and app you use.
