How to Load Airtel Card – The Simple USSD Code You Need (2025 Guide)
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| How to Load Airtel Card |
Learn how to load Airtel recharge card easily using the correct USSD code. Step-by-step guide for 2025 Airtel users in Nigeria, with bonus tips on checking balance and troubleshooting.
Recharging your Airtel line should be easy and fast. Whether you’re new to Airtel Nigeria or just need a reminder, this guide will show you how to load Airtel card using the USSD code, troubleshoot common issues, and check your balance—all in under 2 minutes!
With over 60 million subscribers, Airtel Nigeria offers one of the fastest and most reliable mobile networks. But even with a solid network, it helps to know the correct Airtel recharge code to avoid errors when topping up.
How to Load Airtel Card in Nigeria (2025)
To load an Airtel recharge card, simply dial:
*126*PIN#
For example, if the Airtel recharge card you bought has this PIN:
1234 5678 9012 3456
You will dial:
*126*1234567890123456# and then press SEND or OK.
That's it! You should get a confirmation message within seconds.
Where to Find the Airtel PIN?
Your Airtel PIN is a 16-digit number found on the back of the recharge card. You’ll need to scratch the silver panel gently to reveal the full PIN. Be careful not to scratch off the numbers.
How to Check Airtel Balance After Recharging
To confirm that your recharge was successful:
- Dial
*123# - Your current airtime balance will appear on the screen.
How to Load Airtel Card for Others (Family or Friends)
You can also recharge another person's line. Here's how:
*126*PIN*Recipient’sNumber#
Example:
*126*1234567890123456*08021234567#
This is perfect if you're helping a friend, parent, or spouse who doesn’t know how to recharge.
Common Errors and Troubleshooting
If you see "invalid PIN", "card already used", or "network error", try the following:
- Double-check the PIN – Make sure you typed all 16 digits correctly.
- Check your network – Poor signal may affect USSD processing.
- Try again after a few minutes – Temporary network glitch.
- Contact Airtel customer care – Dial 111 for help.
Bonus Tip: Recharge Directly From Your Bank
If you don't have a physical recharge card, you can load airtime using your bank:
- Dial your bank’s USSD code (e.g.,
*737#for GTBank) - Select Airtime
- Enter your phone number and amount
- Confirm with your PIN
It’s quick, safe, and works 24/7.
Summary
| Task | Code / Action |
|---|---|
| Load Airtel card | *126*PIN# |
| Check Airtel balance | *123# |
| Recharge another line | *126*PIN*Recipient’sNumber# |
| Airtel customer care | Dial 111 |
- Airtel Data Code – How to Buy and Check Airtel Data
- How to Transfer Airtime on Airtel
- Top Airtel Tariff Plans and How to Migrate
Conclusion
Now you know exactly how to load Airtel card, check your balance, and even top up other numbers. With this simple USSD method, you’ll never be stranded without airtime again!
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with friends or family who use Airtel Nigeria.
