How to Open a Bank Account Using Only My Phone

I still remember the first bank account I opened, as if it were yesterday. As a 100-level fresher with no experience of the real world, I needed an account to receive money for “allowee” and school fees payment (notice I said receive, because who had money to send then :-) ). 

The day I landed at the bank to meet a long queue that had no respect for human life waiting for me, I thought, “E don be, we die here.” The funniest part? My younger brother doesn’t even understand why that was a big deal then. But that’s the thing, times have changed.

In today’s digital age, opening a bank account no longer means spending half your day in a bank or filling out black-and-white forms that look more confusing than they need to be. You can now open a bank account from the comfort of your home, using just your phone.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to open a bank account in minutes using only your phone, whether that’s through a banking app or a simple USSD code.

What Do You Need to Get Started?

Before you open any bank account in Nigeria on your phone, you'll need a few basic items ready. 

1. Your Phone

This can be a smartphone or a basic phone. If you’re using a banking app, you’ll need a smartphone and internet access. However, if you’re using USSD, a simple phone works fine.

2. Your Phone Number

Your phone number is now tied to almost everything banking-related. It’s how banks verify you, send OTPs, and link your account to your identity. Make sure it’s your personal number, and it's still active.

3. Your National Identification Number (NIN)

Most banks now ask for your NIN when you’re opening an account. It’s part of the government’s push to properly identify account holders. If you already have your NIN, you’ll need it to open a bank account with your phone.  

You can also dial *346# from your registered phone number for a network service fee of N20 if you can’t remember your NIN. However, if you don’t have a NIN, you can easily get one by pre-enrolling online via the NIMC Pre-Enrolment Portal, filling out the form, and printing the summary sheet. Then visit an accredited NIMC enrolment centre with the required documents (e.g., BVN, Passport) for biometric capture, including fingerprints and a facial image, to receive your NIN slip. 

4. Your Bank Verification Number

For most mobile app accounts, your BVN is required. It helps banks confirm your identity and link your account to your existing banking records. 

How to Open a Bank Account with a Mobile Banking App on your Phone

This is the most common and straightforward option today, especially if you use a smartphone and have internet access. Most digital banks and mobile banking apps are designed to allow you open a bank account from start to finish without stepping outside. Now, how does this work: 

Step 1: Download the Banking App

Go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and download the official app of the bank you want to use. Always double-check the app name and developer so you don’t download a fake one. 

Step 2: Sign up with your phone number

Once you open the app, you’ll be asked to enter your phone number. An OTP will be sent to that number to confirm it’s really you. This step is important because your phone number becomes a major part of how your account is identified.

Step 3: Enter your Personal Details and BVN

Next, you’ll provide basic information such as your name, date of birth, and address, then enter your BVN. This helps the bank verify your identity and link your account. In most cases, this verification takes just a few seconds.

Step 4: Identity Check (if required)

Some apps may ask you to take a quick selfie or upload a valid ID. This is just an extra layer of confirmation and usually takes only a few minutes to complete.

Step 5: Submit and Get your Account

Once you submit everything, your account is created. Many apps will show your account number immediately, while others may take a short time to finish verification. Either way, you’ll usually get notified inside the app.
Note: Ensure you have your BVN and NIN ready so you’re not switching apps mid-process. Create a strong password and turn on any security features the app offers, like PINs or biometric login. Once your account is live, check the app to confirm your account number and basic details before you start using it.

If you’re comfortable using apps, this method is usually the fastest and most flexible way to open a bank account today.

How to Open an Account with a USSD  Code (No Internet Needed)

No internet? No smartphone? No problem. You can still open a bank account right from your phone using USSD. It’s fast, simple, and works on even the most basic phones.

Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Dial the bank’s USSD code
   Every bank has a short code you can dial from your phone. Once you dial, a menu pops up.

2. Select “Open Account”
   The menu will include options such as “Check Balance,” “Transfer,” and “Open Account.” Pick the one for opening a new account.

3. Enter your details
   You’ll be asked to input your name, phone number, and your NIN or BVN. Some banks might also ask for a few extra details, like date of birth. Just follow the prompts carefully.

4. Confirm and finish
   Once you submit, your phone number usually becomes your account number. You’ll get a confirmation message, and your account is ready to use.

Now, Some Saftey Tips to Keep in Mind When Opening an Account with your Phone 

Opening a bank account on your phone is convenient, but it’s important to stay safe while doing so. Here are some basic tips to keep in mind:

1. Use Your Own Phone Number

Your phone number is now linked to your identity and BVN. Using someone else’s number can cause verification problems, delays, or even block your account.

2. Avoid Public Wi-Fi

It’s tempting to sign up on any network, but public Wi-Fi can be risky. Hackers can intercept data, including OTPs and passwords. Stick to your mobile data or a trusted home Wi-Fi when signing up.

3. Enable App Locks and OTPs

Most banking apps let you add extra security like PINs, fingerprints, or face recognition. Always use them. OTPs are also an extra layer of protection for transactions, so never share them with anyone.

4. Watch Out for Fake Apps

Only download apps from official app stores. Scammers sometimes create fake apps that look real to steal information. Double-check the app name, developer, and reviews before downloading.

5. Keep your Info Private

Don’t share your BVN, NIN, password, or OTP with anyone. Banks will never ask for your password over a call or message. Treat your account like your wallet, personal and protected.

Wrapping Up

There you have it. Opening a bank account today doesn’t have to be a full-day stress mission like it was back in my 100-level. With just your phone, a few details, and minutes of your time, you can have a fully active account ready to send, receive, and manage your money.

Whether it’s for personal use or running your business, Moniepoint makes it super easy and stress-free. So, download the Moniepoint app today and open your Personal account or Business Bank account right from your phone.