In compliance with new CBN directives, Nigerian banks are enforcing the mandatory linkage of your National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) to your accounts. (both commercial and microfinance banks)

Following the February 29th, 2024/March 1st deadlines, accounts need the proper linkage to avoid restrictions or freezing. While some banks did not stipulate any deadline, some have taken actions like withholding balance info on customers' accounts, among others.

Don't panic! We'll guide you through the simple steps to link your NIN and BVN for major Nigerian banks as this process is essential for security across Nigeria.

What is a Tier 1 account?

Tier 1 accounts are basic bank accounts designed for easy access, requiring minimal identification when opened. Because of this simplified process, they often have restrictions, such as:

• Limits on the maximum amount you can deposit at once (e.g., ₦50,000 naira)
• A maximum account balance limit (e.g., ₦300,000 naira)

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has placed strict regulations for Tier 1 accounts. To ensure compliance and account security, you must link a Bank Verification Number (BVN) or National Identification Number (NIN) to your Tier 1 account.

The process of linking  BVN or NIN to your bank account can be done via any of the following ways:

1. For GTB account holders

• Dial 73720*BVN# from your linked phone and number.
• You can also visit GTBank's website to use their self-service portal to link both your BVN and NIN. 
• Go to your local GTBank branch nearest to you if you prefer to operate offline.

Your best bet however as at time of writing is to use the in-branch method as GTB's linkage page is still undergoing updates.

 2. For UBA bank account holders

• Message UBA's Leo assistant on Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, or Apple Messages. Search for "NIN update" in the prompts.
• As another option, visit UBA's official website and find their self-service section for step-by-step instructions.

3. For Access bank account holders

• Using USSD on your registered phone, dial *901*11# and follow on-screen instructions to enter your NIN and BVN.
• You can also reach out to @myaccessbank on Twitter (X) with your account number and a photo of your NIN slip.
• The Access Bank's website is another option. You can continue the process via the dedicated NIN/BVN linkage section.

4. For Ecobank account holders

• You can visit Ecobank's official website and navigate to the Customer Update page.
• Provide your required information and await a one-time password (OTP) in your registered email. Enter the OTP as instructed.
• Then upload a clear scan of your NIN slip and hit submit.

5. For Zenith bank account holders

• For the USSD option, dial *966*NIN# and follow the prompts to link your NIN to your bank account.
• As another option, visit Zenith's Internet banking portal, and go to "Account,". You can select either the "Update Account (NIN)" or "BVN Update." to fill out the required fields and submit.

Note that Zenith’s ZIVA chatbot has no options at this time to handle BVN/NIN linkage as in the case of UBA’s LEO.

6. For Stanbic bank account holders

• You can link your NIN and BVN to your Stanbic bank account when you log on to the website.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to input your NIN and BVN.
• Double-check your details and confirm to submit.

7. For Opay account holders

• Using the In-app self-service, you can navigate to account limits and click on the ‘upgrade to tier 2 account’ option. Then follow the prompts to link your NIN to your Opay account.
• You can also message Opay support on WhatsApp using 09165998936
• Alternatively, you can visit any of the Opay offices near you to complete the process.

8. For FCMB account holders

• Begin by visiting the FCMB website using this link and following the on-screen instructions to link your NIN and BVN.

Linking Your BVN and NIN as a Nigerian in the Diaspora

While living abroad, you have several ways to manage your Nigerian bank accounts: mail, diaspora-specific banking options,  online banking, mobile apps, or USSD codes. 

Here's how to link your BVN and NIN from overseas:

If you have both your NIN and BVN:

• Many banks now allow linking via their websites or apps. Check your bank's online platforms for options.
• If that's not available, contact your bank's customer support (often via email) for specific instructions.

If you only have a BVN:

1. Obtain a Virtual NIN (vNIN): Recharge your registered Nigerian phone number and dial *346*YourEnterpriseCode# to generate a vNIN. You can find your Enterprise Code on the NIMC mobile app.
2. Email Your Bank: Send your vNIN to your bank's customer support email along with any required documents. They will provide further instructions.

Things to consider in Diaspora:

• Procedures can differ between banks. Contact yours directly for the most accurate process.
• A registered Nigerian phone number is often necessary to receive OTPs (One-Time Passcodes) for verification.
• If you don't have a NIN, you can enrol through designated centres in your country of residence. Check the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) website for details.

Conclusion

Linking your BVN and NIN to your bank account is crucial for protecting your financial transactions and complying with regulations. Thankfully, Nigerian banks have begun to make this process easy and convenient with various options. By taking the steps in this guide, you're not only safeguarding your funds but also playing a role in strengthening the security and integrity of the nation's banking system.