New codes to share data on MTN, Airtel, Glo and 9Mobile in 2024

If you have tried sharing data with friends on MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9Mobile or recharging your line with the old USSD code for your mobile network, you would most certainly realise that you were directed to use another code. 

For instance, as an MTN subscriber, you can no longer share data using the regular *131*7*1# code. The same applies to Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile.

In March 2023, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) implemented new, unified USSD codes for all mobile operators to implement by May 17, 2023.

This guide provides the latest data-sharing codes for all four major networks in Nigeria as of July 2024.

New code for MTN Data sharing

Note that you can only share your data with users on the same service provider as you (MTN to MTN only). 

There are 3 ways to share data on the MTN network: USSD, SMS, or the MTN App.

Using USSD

Dial *321# and follow the prompts:

1. Choose “Transfer from data balance.”
2. Enter your friend’s phone number.
3. Select the amount of data to share.
4. Confirm the transaction.

Using SMS Texting:

1. Open your message app.
2. Type “Transfer” followed by your friend’s phone number and the data amount (e.g., Transfer 0816030000 1000).
3. Send the message to 321. You’ll receive a confirmation message if successful.

Using the MyMTN App: (Download the app if you haven’t already)

1. Log in to the MyMTN app.
2. On the homepage, tap “Share.”
3. Choose “Data Share” from the sharing options.
4. You have the option to add the recipient’s number or choose from saved Beneficiaries and Linked numbers.
5. If it’s a new number, enter the phone number and select the data amount you wish to transfer.
6. Tap “Share” and hit “Confirm”.

New code to share data for Airtel NG 

Here’s how to share your data using the new code on the Airtel network, also known as the Me2U service:

1. Dial *321# on your phone.
2. Choose the “Gift Data Bundle” option.
3. Next select “Data Gifting.”
4. Pick “Enter from existing balance.”
5. Enter your friend’s number and the data amount you want to share.
6. Hit Send.

Code to share data on 9Mobile

Gifting data with 9Mobile is quite simple. Unlike MTN and Airtel, users require a PIN to share data and the default PIN for all users is 0000. However, you have to change this PIN to use it. 

1. To change your PIN, dial *321*default PIN*new PIN#. 
2. Dial *321# and select ‘Data Transfer’.
3. On the new pop-up, enter your new PIN, data size, and recipient’s number, then send. For example, *321*1234*1000*07130480000#.

You will receive a confirmation message if successful.

New code for GLO Data sharing

Glo offers three ways to share your data: direct code, USSD, or SMS. Here’s a breakdown:

Using the Direct Code:

1. Dial *321*01* followed by the recipient’s phone number (e.g., *321*01*0713030000#).
2. Press send.

Using USSD:

1. Dial *321#.
2. Choose option 1: “Data.”
3. Select option 2: “Share data plan.”
4. Pick option 1: “Share.”

Enter the recipient’s phone number and send.

Sharing via SMS:

1. Open your messaging app.
2. Type “Share,” followed by the recipient’s number.
3. Send to 321.

Note that: Unlike other networks, sharing data with Glo lets the recipient use your data until you remove them from the plan.

To Stop Sharing Data (via SMS):

1. Open your messaging app.
2. Type “Remove,” followed by the recipient’s number.
3. Send to 321.

There you have it! Now you can choose the method that works best for you and keep your Glo friends connected.

Frequently Asked Questions about sharing data on MTN, Glo, Airtel and 9Mobile

What are unified USSD codes? 

Unified USSD codes streamline various services into single, easy-to-remember codes. This initiative by the NCC aims to simplify the process for users by unifying short codes across all network providers.

How do I know if someone is sharing my data? 

Check data sharing on Glo with *321*00# and on Airtel with *321# or by calling 121.

Will numbers linked to my Airtel SIM share my data? 

No, linked numbers cannot share your data without direct access to your MyMTN app.

What are the new USSD codes for various services? 

Data Plans: *321#, Recharge: *311#, Borrow Airtime: *303#, Data Balance: *323#, Account Balance: *310#, Share Data: *321#, VAS: *305#, NIN: *996#.

What USSD codes remain unchanged? 

996 for NIN-SIM linkage, 2442 for DND complaints, and 3232 for number portability.

How can I share MTN data to other networks? 

Direct data transfer between different networks is not possible. Use your bank account to send data.

How can I unshare data on Airtel? 

Dial *321# and follow the prompts to Family plan and manage dependent settings.

How can I unshare data on Glo? 

Dial *321*01*[friend’s number]# to remove someone or *321*02# to list shared numbers.