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| Carrier Call Blocking Services |
Unwanted calls are one of the most common frustrations for mobile users in Nigeria. From telemarketing campaigns to spam and fraud attempts, many people wish there was a way to block specific numbers or restrict unwanted callers. Thankfully, major Nigerian carriers — MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile — have introduced call blocking services to help subscribers regain control over their privacy.
In this article, we compare the call blocking features, subscription methods, costs, and efficiency across the four networks so you can choose the service that best fits your needs.
MTN Call Blocking Service
MTN Nigeria provides subscribers with a Call Restriction and Blacklist feature through the MTN Call Manager service.
- How it works: Users can block calls from specific numbers or anonymous/private callers.
- Activation Code: Dial 1235*4# or use the MyMTN app.
- Charges: Some features may come with daily or monthly charges, depending on your plan.
- Extra Features: Call divert, call waiting, and Do Not Disturb (DND) options to filter out promotional SMS.
Learn more on the official MTN website: MTN Nigeria Call Manager
Airtel Call Blocking Service
Airtel offers a Call Management Suite that allows users to block unwanted numbers and manage incoming calls.
- How it works: You can create a blacklist to stop specific numbers from calling you.
- Activation Code: Dial *121# → Select Call Management → Choose Call Barring/Blocking.
- Charges: Usually free for basic features, but premium blocking may attract a small fee.
- Extra Features: Airtel also supports Do Not Disturb (DND) for promotional calls and SMS.
See details via Airtel Nigeria Call Services
Glo Call Blocking Service
Globacom provides a Call Barring and Call Filtering option that helps subscribers manage unwanted calls.
- How it works: Users can activate call barring for international, incoming, or outgoing calls, and also blacklist certain numbers.
- Activation Code: Dial 350000# to block incoming calls (0000 is the default PIN). For blacklist features, check the Glo Café App.
- Charges: Basic call barring is free; app-based blacklist features may require data.
- Extra Features: Strong integration with Glo Café App for better call control.
Visit Glo Nigeria Services
9mobile Call Blocking Service
9mobile (formerly Etisalat) offers subscribers Call Barring and Number Blocking services.
- How it works: You can block incoming calls from specific numbers or use general call restrictions.
- Activation Code: Dial 350000# for incoming call barring. For personalized blocking, use the 9mobile app.
- Charges: Free for standard call barring; app-based services may include small subscription fees.
- Extra Features: 9mobile also supports DND activation for promotional SMS.
More details at 9mobile Nigeria
MTN vs Airtel vs Glo vs 9mobile Call Blocking
| Feature | MTN Call Manager | Airtel Call Blocking | Glo Call Filtering | 9mobile Call Blocking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blacklist Option | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Anonymous Call Block | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| App Support | ✅ MyMTN App | ✅ Airtel Thanks App | ✅ Glo Café App | ✅ 9mobile App |
| USSD Codes | 1235*4# | *121# | 350000# | 350000# |
| Charges | Low fee/month | Mostly free | Free/low data use | Free/basic |
- MTN stands out with advanced features like anonymous call blocking and flexible controls.
- Airtel is simple and user-friendly, great if you want basic call blocking at no cost.
- Glo is efficient but works best when managed through the Glo Café App.
- 9mobile offers reliable call barring but lacks advanced features like anonymous blocking.
If you want full control and advanced blocking, MTN Call Manager is the best option. If you only need basic blacklist blocking for free, Airtel may be the way to go.
