MTN Message Center Number: How to Fix SMS Not Sending Issues (2025 Guide)
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MTN Message Center Number |
Are your SMS messages failing to send on your MTN line? One of the most common reasons for this issue is an incorrect MTN Message Center Number (also called the SMSC – Short Message Service Center).
In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about the MTN SMS Center Number, how to check or set it on your phone, and how to fix SMS not sending problems.
What is the MTN Message Center Number?
The MTN Message Center Number is a special code used by your phone to route SMS messages through MTN's network.
If the message center number is missing, wrongly configured, or deleted, your SMS messages will not send, no matter how much airtime you have.
MTN Message Center Number (Nigeria – 2025)
+234803000000
This is the official MTN Nigeria Message Center Number. It is the same across all devices and locations within Nigeria.
Make sure it is correctly saved on your device, especially after switching SIMs or resetting your phone.
How to Check or Set MTN Message Center Number on Android
Follow these steps:
- Open your Messaging App
- Tap the Menu (3 dots) or Settings
- Scroll to Text message (SMS) settings
- Find Message Center or SMS Center
- Enter:
+234803000000
- Tap Save
If you can’t find it in your messaging app, you may need to check Settings > Mobile Network > SMS Settings depending on your Android version.
How to Set MTN Message Center Number on iPhone
- Go to Phone App
- Dial the code:
*#5005*7672#
– This shows your current SMSC - To set it, dial:
**5005*7672*+234803000000#
- Press the call button
You’ll receive a confirmation if it’s successfully updated.
Why SMS Fails to Send on MTN (and How to Fix It)
If you’re facing “Message Not Sent” errors on MTN, here are possible reasons:
Problem | Solution |
---|---|
Wrong SMS Center Number | Set it to +234803000000 |
Airplane mode enabled | Turn it off and retry |
No airtime for SMS | Recharge and try again |
Weak or no network signal | Move to an area with better reception |
Message app crash or bug | Clear app cache or use a different app |
SIM not properly inserted | Remove and reinsert the SIM card |
Phone blocked from sending SMS | Restart phone or reset network settings |
Bonus Tip: Reset Network Settings (Last Resort)
If all else fails:
-
On Android:
Go to Settings > System > Reset > Reset Network Settings -
On iPhone:
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Reset Network Settings
This will remove all saved Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices, so use only as a last resort.
Still Not Working? Contact MTN Customer Care
You can speak with MTN Nigeria customer care by:
- Dialing 300 from your MTN line
- Via WhatsApp: MTN Nigeria WhatsApp Support
- Using the MyMTN App
They can help troubleshoot SMS issues or reset your SMS center remotely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I change the MTN message center number to something else?
A: No. Always use the official number +234803000000
. Any other number will cause your SMS to fail.
Q: Will changing my SIM affect the message center number?
A: It might. Always recheck the message center settings when you insert a new SIM.
Q: Does SMS center affect WhatsApp or online messages?
A: No. It only affects traditional SMS, not online messaging apps.