If you’ve ever tried loading airtime and found yourself stuck thinking, “What’s that code again?” You’re not alone.

Millions of Airtel users in Nigeria rely on USSD codes daily to recharge, check balance, and buy data (all without internet). Whether you’re in the heart of Lagos or relaxing in a low-network village, these short codes work like magic. 

So, what is USSD?

USSD is short for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data, but don’t let the big name scare you. It’s really just a fancy name for those quick codes you dial with * and # to get things done on your phone. They’re fast, reliable, and perfect for every phone type. 

This article will walk you through the latest Airtel USSD recharge codes: how to load your Airtel card, check your balance, and more, all in plain, easy-to-follow steps.

What Is Airtel Card?

Airtel USSD recharge code

An Airtel card is simply a way to prepay for mobile services on the Airtel network. It gives you access to airtime for calls, SMS, and data. Whether you’re topping up your own line or someone else’s, the airtime keeps you connected.

Think of it like fueling your phone. Once you load it, your line is ready to go. You can top up from an app, code, or even have someone send you airtime. It all counts. What really matters is the value it gives you: talk time, data, and freedom to use your line however you like.

Airtel card comes in the denominations of NGN 100, NGN 200, NGN 500, and NGN 1,000. This is also similar to what we have on different gift cards. For instance, Google Play gift cards in denominations of $10, $25, $50, $100, etc. So when you think about how Airtel card works, think of how you redeem gift cards.

Benefits Of Using Airtel Card

 

1. Exchange For Cash

You can sell the Airtel card for cash when you need you need urgent funds. What this means is that when you have an Airtel card, and you have some money to settle some bills, you can sell the airtime for cash. At this juncture, consider Prestmit as the platform to exchange your airtime for cash. We hold our reputation as one of the best platforms that exchange airtime for cash in Nigeria at the best rates.

2. Get Airtime

You automatically recharge your mobile device with an Airtel airtime when you recharge an Airtel card. This enables you to make calls and send text messages at your convenience. The Airtel airtime is like a car’s fuel that propels you to different possibilities.

3. Get A Data Subscription

You are open to different data bundles when you recharge your Airtel card, as the denomination of the card you renew is a function of how many bytes of data you will get to access the internet.

How to Recharge Airtel Card Using USSD Code

Recharging your Airtel line is now easier than ever; no need for recharge PINs or old-school scratch cards. Just follow one of these two smooth and modern methods:

Method 1: Airtel’s Direct USSD Recharge

  • Dial *311# on your Airtel line.

  • Choose “Recharge” from the menu.

  • Enter your airtime PIN when prompted.

  • Receive an instant confirmation once credited.

Already have a recharge PIN and want to skip the menu? You can still dial *311*PIN# and hit send.

Method 2: Recharge via Your Bank’s USSD

You can also top up directly from your bank account; there is no need for a separate PIN. Here are popular Nigerian bank codes:

  • GTBank – *737*Amount# for self-recharge; *737*Amount*PhoneNumber# for others (737.gtbank.com)

  • Access Bank – *901*Amount# to recharge your line; use *901*Amount*PhoneNumber# for third-party (accessbankplc.com)

  • UBA (Magic Banking) – *919*Amount# for self or *919*PhoneNumber*Amount# for others (ubagroup.com)

  • First Bank – *894*Amount# to recharge yourself; *894*Amount*PhoneNumber# to recharge for someone else (firstbanknigeria.com)

You only need your bank’s USSD code and phone number. Then, follow the on-screen prompts to choose Airtel as the network.

Both methods are fast, secure, and available offline. They let you recharge in seconds, regardless of your phone type or location.

How to Check Airtel Card Balance

After recharging, you may want to confirm your new balance. Here’s how:

  • Dial *310#

  • Your airtime balance will appear on-screen and be sent via SMS

Note: This code replaced the old *123# after NCC’s harmonized USSD update.

It is noteworthy that only active Airtel subscribers can check their card balance because having an Airtel Sim card is the prerequisite to doing this activity. Therefore, an MTN subscriber can not contain their Airtel card on his MTN number.

This is also similar to how gift cards work. You can not check your Google Play gift card balance on Apple Store, as you can’t also check your iTunes gift card balance on Google Play Store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Loading Airtel Card 

Can I load airtime without using a voucher PIN?

Yes! Instead of manually entering the PIN, dial *311#, select ‘Recharge’ from the menu, enter your PIN when prompted, and you’re done.

What if I still want to use the old method?

Not anymore. Airtel has fully switched to the new system. If you dial an old code like *126#, you’ll be redirected to use *311# instead.

Why does my USSD code sometimes say “Service Unavailable”?

This can happen due to network congestion or low signal strength. Try moving to a better coverage area, then dial again in a few minutes.

Can banks charge me extra for airtime top-up via USSD?

Thanks to regulatory agreements, banks may impose a small fee (e.g., ₦6–₦7 per transaction), but Airtel itself doesn’t charge extra for its own USSD services. (keystonebankng.com)

What if I don’t receive confirmation after recharging?

First, check your account with *310#. If you still don’t see the airtime, wait a few minutes and try again. If the issue persists, call Airtel customer care by dialling 300 (toll-free from any Airtel line).

Can I recharge someone else’s Airtel line?

Definitely! Airtel’s USSD menu and most bank USSDs allow third-party recharges. Just dial *311#, choose ‘Recharge for someone else,’ or use your bank’s USSD and enter the recipient’s number.

Conclusion

With Airtel’s updated USSD system, loading airtime has never been easier. Whether you’re topping up through *311#, using your bank’s USSD code, or sending airtime to a loved one, you have fast, reliable options right at your fingertips. No internet needed.

From calls to data, Airtel recharge gives you control, convenience, and connection. With extra perks like airtime-to-cash exchange and balance checks, it’s easy to see why millions still rely on it daily.

So the next time your phone says “low balance,” don’t panic. Just dial, recharge, and get back to living. Simple, stress-free, and fully powered.

 

Last updated on June 26, 2025