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| How to Deactivate Private Number on MTN |
Learn how to deactivate private number on MTN using USSD codes, phone settings, and support options. Simple steps, updated guide, and FAQs.
Calling with a private or hidden number can be useful at times, but it often causes missed calls, distrust, or blocked connections. If your MTN line is currently showing “Private Number” when you call others, this guide explains how to deactivate private number on MTN quickly and permanently.
This article is user-first, beginner-friendly, and fully updated, covering all working methods on MTN Nigeria—USSD codes, phone settings, and customer support—so you can fix the issue without stress.
What Does “Private Number” Mean on MTN?
A private number means your caller ID is hidden, so the person you’re calling cannot see your phone number. Instead, they see:
- “Private Number”
- “Unknown Caller”
- “No Caller ID”
This happens when caller ID suppression is active on your line or device.
Why Your MTN Number Is Showing as Private
Before explaining how to deactivate private number on MTN, it’s important to understand why it happens.
Common Reasons Include:
- You dialed a caller ID blocking code earlier
- Caller ID is disabled in your phone settings
- Network-level caller ID restriction is active
- SIM configuration error or reset
- Previous device settings carried over to a new phone
The good news: this issue is reversible.
How to Deactivate Private Number on MTN (Fastest Method)
Method 1: Use MTN USSD Code (Most Reliable)
This is the official and fastest method.
Step-by-step:
- Open your phone dialer
- Dial
#31# - Press the call button
- Wait for confirmation
- Restart your phone
This code re-enables caller ID on MTN lines.
Tip: This works on both smartphones and feature phones.
How to Remove Private Number on MTN Using Phone Settings
Sometimes, the issue is not from MTN but from your phone.
Method 2: Android Phone Settings
- Open Phone app
- Tap the three-dot menu
- Go to Settings
- Select Calls
- Tap Additional Settings
- Choose Caller ID
- Select Show number
Restart your phone after making changes.
Method 3: iPhone Settings (iOS)
- Open Settings
- Tap Phone
- Select Show My Caller ID
- Toggle it ON
- Restart your iPhone
If the option is greyed out, the restriction is from the network—use the USSD method instead.
How to Deactivate Private Number on MTN Permanently
To ensure the problem does not return:
- Use #31# instead of temporary call codes
- Avoid dialing #31#number (this hides your ID temporarily)
- Check caller ID settings after SIM swap
- Restart your phone after any network change
This locks in the fix permanently.
Temporary vs Permanent Caller ID Blocking (Important Difference)
Temporary Blocking
- Dialing #31# + phone number
- Only hides your number for one call
Permanent Blocking
- Network or phone-level settings
- Affects all outgoing calls
This guide focuses on permanent deactivation, which most users want.
What to Do If #31# Does Not Work on MTN
If the USSD code fails, try the steps below.
Method 4: Contact MTN Customer Care
You can request MTN to remove caller ID restriction from their end.
MTN Support Options:
- Dial 180 from your MTN line
- Visit an MTN Service Centre
- Use the MyMTN App
- Contact MTN via verified social media accounts
Request caller ID unblocking or private number deactivation.
Does Deactivating Private Number Cost Money?
No.
Deactivating private number on MTN is completely free.
- No activation fee
- No subscription charge
- No data required
How to Test If Your MTN Number Is Now Visible
After deactivation:
- Call another phone
- Check if your number displays
- Ask the receiver to confirm
- Try multiple networks (Airtel, Glo, 9mobile)
If your number shows correctly, the fix worked.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing #31# with #31#number
- Forgetting to restart the phone
- Changing phone settings but not network settings
- Assuming it’s an MTN fault when it’s device-related
Avoiding these saves time.
Privacy & Security Considerations
Showing your number:
- Improves trust and call acceptance
- Reduces call blocking
- Makes business and personal calls easier
If privacy is needed, use temporary blocking instead of permanent settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I deactivate private number on MTN?
Dial #31#, press call, and restart your phone.
Why is my MTN number still private after using the code?
Check your phone’s caller ID settings or contact MTN support.
Can MTN hide my number again without permission?
No. It usually changes only if you activate it manually or reset your device.
Does this work on all phones?
Yes—Android, iPhone, and feature phones.
Is private number the same as unknown number?
Yes. Both mean your caller ID is hidden.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to deactivate private number on MTN saves you from missed calls, blocked connections, and unnecessary frustration. Whether the issue comes from network settings or your phone, the solutions in this guide cover every working method available today.
The #31# USSD code remains the most effective solution, but phone settings and MTN support are reliable backups.
If this guide helped you, share it with others, bookmark it for later, and explore more MTN tips and mobile guides to stay fully in control of your line.
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