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| How to Change Phone Number Linked to Your BVN |
Learn how to change the phone number linked to your BVN in Nigeria. Step-by-step guide for GTBank, Access, Zenith, FirstBank, and more.
Have you lost access to the phone number linked to your BVN? Maybe you switched networks, misplaced your SIM, or your old number got deactivated. Without the correct number, receiving OTPs (One-Time Passwords), alerts, and bank notifications becomes a hassle.
The good news is—you can change the phone number linked to your BVN easily by following the right steps. In this guide, you’ll learn the step-by-step process, required documents, and bank-specific procedures to update your BVN phone number successfully.
Why Changing Your BVN Phone Number is Important
Your Bank Verification Number (BVN) is tied to your financial identity across all Nigerian banks. The phone number linked to it is crucial because it:
- Receives OTPs for online transactions.
- Gets SMS alerts for suspicious activities.
- Serves as a recovery tool when you forget login details.
- Keeps your account safe and accessible.
If you lose this number, your financial access may be restricted, so updating it immediately is essential.
Requirements to Change Phone Number on BVN
Before heading to the bank, ensure you have:
- Valid means of identification (National ID, Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport).
- Your BVN number (Dial 5650# on your registered line to check, or request at the bank).
- Completed BVN update form (provided at the bank).
- A passport photograph (some banks may request this).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Phone Number Linked to Your BVN
Here’s how to update your BVN phone number quickly:
1. Visit Your Bank Branch
Changing your BVN phone number cannot be done online or via USSD—you must visit a physical branch of your bank (GTBank, Access, Zenith, FirstBank, etc.).
2. Request for BVN Update
Ask the customer service officer for the BVN correction or update form. Fill in your BVN, old phone number, and new phone number.
3. Provide Necessary Documents
Submit your valid ID, passport photograph, and completed form. Some banks may ask for an affidavit if the old number is permanently lost.
4. Biometric Verification
Your fingerprints will be scanned again to confirm your identity.
5. Wait for Processing
Processing usually takes between 24–72 hours. Once updated, you’ll start receiving SMS alerts on your new number.
How Different Banks Handle BVN Phone Number Updates
Here’s a quick overview of how major Nigerian banks process BVN phone number changes:
GTBank
- Visit any GTBank branch.
- Fill out the BVN update form.
- Provide a valid ID and biometric verification.
- GTBank official site.
Access Bank
- Head to the nearest Access Bank branch.
- Fill in the BVN update request form.
- Submit supporting documents.
- Access Bank official site.
Zenith Bank
- Request BVN phone number change at the customer service desk.
- Provide ID and biometric verification.
- Zenith Bank official site.
FirstBank
- Fill out the BVN update form.
- Submit with a valid ID.
- Wait for processing within 48 hours.
- FirstBank official site.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Lost SIM without retrieval: Provide an affidavit and sworn declaration along with your new number.
- Mismatch in personal details: Ensure your BVN details match your ID. If not, you may need to correct errors first.
- Delays in processing: Follow up at the branch if it takes longer than 72 hours.
Benefits of Updating Your BVN Phone Number
Once updated, you’ll enjoy:
- Smooth online banking transactions.
- Real-time SMS notifications for security.
- Easier account recovery.
- Peace of mind knowing your bank has your active contact.
Call-to-Action (CTA)
Don’t wait until you’re locked out of your account—visit your bank branch today and change the phone number linked to your BVN.
For easy mobile banking after updating your BVN, download your bank’s app from the Google Play Store or App Store.
Changing the phone number linked to your BVN is a straightforward process but requires a physical bank visit. With the right documents, you can complete it within a few hours to a few days.
Your BVN is your financial fingerprint—don’t leave it tied to an inactive or inaccessible number. Take action today, update your BVN details, and secure your banking future.
Head to your nearest branch now and update your BVN phone number for uninterrupted banking access.
