Losing a mobile number due to inactivity can be frustrating, especially when it’s linked to important services like banking, NIN, and WhatsApp. To avoid this, you can reserve your number in advance with your network provider for a fee. Here’s a detailed guide to help you retain your number on MTN and Airtel:
Understanding SIM Deactivation in Nigeria, SIM cards that are not in use for a certain period can be deactivated and potentially recycled. This is part of the Nigerian Communications Commission’s (NCC) efforts to regulate SIM card usage and ensure all active lines have valid, traceable data.
Why Reserve Your Number?
Reserving your number prevents it from being deactivated due to inactivity, ensuring you don’t lose access to crucial services linked to that number.
This is particularly important for individuals who travel frequently or switch SIMs but still need to retain their original number. How to Retain Your Number on MTN and Airtel While the specific steps for reserving a number might vary, generally, you can contact your network provider’s customer service to inquire about their process and fees.
Here are some general contact details:-
MTN: Dial *180# or visit their website for customer support
Airtel: Dial *111# or visit their website for customer support Additional Tips – Regularly check your SIM card’s activity status with your provider.- Consider linking your NIN to your SIM card to comply with NCC regulations and prevent deactivation.
If you’ve already lost your number, you may need to reactivate it or obtain a new SIM card with the same number, depending on your provider’s policies.
By taking proactive steps to reserve your number, you can avoid the hassle and potential security risks associated with losing access to important services.
How to Retain Your Line on MTNStep 1. Dial *365#.
Step 2. Select your preferred duration (one year, two years, or three years) and press Send.
Step 3. Choose 1 to activate your selection.
How to Retain Your Line on AirtelStep 1. Dial *494#.
Step 2. Select your preferred duration (one year, two years, or three years) and press Send.
This will confirm your selection and complete the process.
Conclusion
In case you’re planning a long vacation or moving to another region or country for a while, the last thing you want is to come back and find your number recycled. By taking the steps in this guide, you can keep your line active and avoid losing access to your bank, business, or contacts.Moreso, this can save you the stress of updating everyone with a new number or risking missed messages tied to your old line
