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| How to Cancel Private Number on MTN Nigeria |
If your MTN line shows “Private Number,” “Unknown Caller,” or “Hidden Number” whenever you make calls, you’re not alone. Many MTN users activate call masking accidentally, then struggle to turn it off. This detailed guide explains how to cancel private number on MTN using simple, verified methods that work on smartphones and basic phones in Nigeria.
Whether the issue started after changing your phone, adjusting call settings, or using a network code, this article walks you through every reliable solution—clearly, safely, and up to date.
What Does “Private Number” Mean on MTN?
A private number means your caller ID is hidden when you place outgoing calls. Instead of seeing your phone number, recipients see:
- Private Number
- Unknown Caller
- No Caller ID
This feature is officially known as Caller ID Restriction (CLIR) and can be controlled either by your phone settings or directly on the MTN network.
Why Your MTN Line Is Showing as Private Number
Before learning how to cancel private number on MTN, it’s important to understand why it happens. The most common causes include:
- Caller ID hiding enabled on your phone
- Network-based call restriction activated using USSD codes
- SIM profile settings updated by MTN
- Phone software reset or update
- Using dual SIM settings incorrectly
The good news is that the issue is fully reversible.
How to Cancel Private Number on MTN Using USSD Code
This is the fastest and most reliable method, and it works on all phones.
MTN Code to Remove Private Number
Dial this code on your MTN line:
#31#
Once dialed:
- Caller ID restriction is disabled
- Your number becomes visible on outgoing calls
- No confirmation SMS is required
Make a test call immediately to confirm.
This method follows GSM standards and is supported by MTN Nigeria under standard call services.
How to Remove Private Number on MTN Android Phones
If the USSD code does not fix the issue, your phone settings may be overriding the network.
Steps for Android Devices
- Open Phone (Dialer) App
- Tap the three dots (top-right corner)
- Go to Settings
- Select Calling Accounts or Call Settings
- Tap Additional Settings
- Choose Caller ID
- Select Show Number
Restart your phone and place a test call.
Android versions may differ slightly depending on brand (Samsung, Tecno, Infinix, Xiaomi), but the Caller ID path is similar.
How to Cancel Private Number on MTN iPhone (iOS)
iPhones commonly hide caller ID due to a single toggle.
Steps on iPhone
- Open Settings
- Scroll to Phone
- Tap Show My Caller ID
- Turn the toggle ON
- Exit settings and restart the phone
Once enabled, your MTN number should display normally.
How to Cancel Private Number on MTN Temporarily (Per Call)
If you only want to show your number for a single call, use this method.
Temporary Caller ID Activation
Dial:
*31#PhoneNumber
Example:
*31#08031234567
This displays your number for that call only.
How to Make Your MTN Number Private Again (Optional)
Some users later ask how to re-enable private number. MTN supports this as well.
MTN Code to Hide Your Number
Dial:
#31# (toggles depending on device/network profile)
or
*31# before a number to hide it for one call
Use responsibly, as many people ignore private calls due to spam risks.
What If the MTN Private Number Code Is Not Working?
If dialing #31# doesn’t resolve the issue, try these steps in order:
- Restart your phone
- Remove and reinsert your MTN SIM
- Check Caller ID settings again
- Test your SIM in another phone
- Update your phone software
If the problem persists, contact MTN customer support through official MTN Nigeria customer care channels.
You can also visit any MTN Service Center nationwide for SIM-level reset.
Does Canceling Private Number on MTN Cost Money?
No.
MTN does not charge for enabling or disabling Caller ID.
- No subscription required
- No data needed
- No service fee applied
Is It Safe to Show Your MTN Number?
Yes, in most cases.
Benefits of Showing Your Number
- Calls are more likely to be answered
- Reduces suspicion of spam or fraud
- Improves professional communication
- Required for banking and verification calls
For privacy-sensitive situations, use per-call hiding instead of permanent restriction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many users unknowingly re-enable private number by:
- Resetting phone settings
- Using call-blocking apps
- Switching SIM slots without checking settings
- Using third-party dialer apps
Stick to your default phone app and official MTN settings for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can MTN hide my number permanently without my consent?
No. Caller ID restriction is user-controlled or device-based.
Does private number affect SMS?
No. It only affects voice calls.
Can someone block private numbers?
Yes. Many phones automatically block private or unknown callers.
Fix Your MTN Caller ID Now
If your calls are being ignored or blocked, don’t wait. Use the steps above to cancel private number on your MTN line and restore normal calling immediately. It takes less than one minute and costs nothing.
Conclusion
Understanding how to cancel private number on MTN saves you from missed calls, ignored business opportunities, and unnecessary frustration. Whether you prefer USSD codes or phone settings, MTN provides reliable ways to control your caller ID. Follow the steps in this guide, test your line, and enjoy clear, trusted communication again.
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