Nigeria’s BVN Phone Number Update Guide: Beat the May 1, 2026 “One-Time Only” Deadline

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With the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) enforcing a strict “once-in-a-lifetime” rule for changing the phone number linked to your Bank Verification Number (BVN) starting May 1, 2026, now is the time to act if you need to update yours.

After the deadline, you’ll generally get only one chance to make the change, no second opportunities for mistakes, lost SIMs, or new numbers. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to update your BVN phone number before the window closes.

Step-by-Step: How to Update Your BVN Phone Number

1. Visit Your Bank Branch (Most Reliable Method)
   • Go to any branch of the bank where you have an active account linked to your BVN.
   • Inform the customer service officer that you want to update the phone number on your BVN.
   • Fill out the BVN phone number update form.
   • Provide valid identification: Ghana Card/National ID, driver’s licence, international passport, or voter’s card.
   • Submit your new phone number.
   • The bank will verify your identity (biometrics or other checks) before processing the change.
   • You’ll usually receive confirmation via SMS once completed.
2. Check If Your Bank Offers Digital Options Some banks allow partial or full updates through:
   • Their mobile banking app or internet banking portal (look under “Service Requests” or “BVN Update”).
   • USSD codes (varies by bank, e.g., *737# for GTBank or similar short codes). Note: Many banks still require in-branch verification for BVN phone changes to prevent fraud.
3. Important Tips Before You Go
   • Use the new phone number you want to link, have it active and ready for OTP or confirmation.
   • Bring original and photocopies of your ID.
   • If you have accounts in multiple banks, you may need to update at each one (BVN is central, but linkage is per institution).
   • The process is free or low-cost at most banks, but confirm with your branch.

Read more: Nigeria Sets May 2026 Deadline for BVN Phone Number Changes Linked to NIN

Why You Should Do This Before May 1, 2026

After the deadline, further phone number changes will be heavily restricted or require exceptional approval. This is part of the CBN’s broader effort to reduce identity fraud, multiple profiling, and SIM-related scams in Nigeria’s digital payments ecosystem.

Missing the update could make it difficult to:

• Receive banking alerts and OTPs
• Link new SIM cards
• Access certain financial services tied to your NIN-BVN

Final Advice

Don’t wait until the last week of April, banks may see long queues as the deadline approaches. Visit your bank this week or next to complete the update safely and avoid future headaches.

If you’re unsure about your current BVN-linked number or need clarification, contact your bank’s customer care or visit a branch directly. The CBN and banks are actively notifying customers, so check your SMS and email for any alerts.

Acting now ensures your BVN stays useful and compliant in Nigeria’s tightening digital identity system.