If you’ve tried dialing the old Airtel code (*141#) and it didn’t work, don’t worry — Airtel Nigeria has updated its USSD codes as part of a nationwide unification directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). This means the new standard code for all Airtel services is *312#.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use Airtel’s new USSD code to recharge airtime, buy data bundles, and manage your mobile account — quickly and easily.
Why Did Airtel Change Its USSD Code?
In 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) mandated all mobile networks in Nigeria to adopt harmonized USSD codes for common services to simplify access for customers.
As a result, Airtel’s new unified USSD code is now *312#, replacing older codes like *141#, *444#, *126#, and *121#.
What Can You Do with *312#?
With the new Airtel USSD code *312#, you can now:
- Buy data bundles
- Recharge airtime
- Share data
- Borrow airtime or data
- Check your balance
- Manage your subscriptions
How to Use the New Airtel USSD Code (*312#)
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the most important features:
1. *Buy Data on Airtel Using 312#
- Dial *312#
- Select Option 1: Data Plans
- Choose from daily, weekly, monthly, mega, or social plans
- Confirm your selection
Example: To buy a ₦1,000 monthly data plan (1.5GB), dial:
*312*1000#
2. *Recharge Airtime on Airtel Using 312#
- Dial *312*RechargePIN#
- Example: *312*123456789012345# (replace with actual PIN)
This method instantly credits your line.
3. Check Your Airtel Data Balance
- Dial *323#
- You’ll receive a message showing your current data balance and validity
4. Borrow Airtime or Data (Credit Me)
- Dial *303#
- Select from airtime or data options
- Follow prompts to borrow based on your eligibility
5. Share Data on Airtel
- Dial *321#
- Select "Data Gifting" or "Data Me2U"
- Enter recipient’s number and data amount
List of Updated Airtel USSD Codes in Nigeria
|
Function |
New Code |
|
Buy Data |
*312# |
|
Recharge Airtime |
312PIN# |
|
Check Data Balance |
*323# |
|
Borrow Airtime/Data |
*303# |
|
Share Data |
*321# |
|
Call Center |
111 or *300# |
|
VAS (subscriptions) |
*305# |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the new Airtel code for buying data?
A: The new USSD code for buying data on Airtel is *312#.
Q2: Can I still use *141# to buy data?
A: No, *141# has been discontinued. You must now use *312#.
Q3: How can I check my Airtel data balance?
A: Dial *323# to view your data balance and expiry date.
Q4: How do I borrow airtime or data from Airtel?
A: Use *303# to borrow airtime or data based on your credit history.
Q5: Can I share data on Airtel with the new code?
A: Yes, simply dial *321# to gift or share data with friends.
Final Thoughts
The *new Airtel USSD code 312# is now the one-stop solution for all your data, airtime, and mobile services. Whether you’re topping up your phone, buying a monthly data plan, or checking your balance, this unified code makes everything easier and faster.
Stay connected by mastering the new codes — and never run out of data or airtime when you need it the most!
