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| What Is the USSD Code for First Bank |
What is the USSD code for First Bank? Learn how to use *894# for transfers, airtime, bill payments, activation steps, charges, and safety tips.
If you’ve ever needed to send money, check your balance, or buy airtime without internet access, you’ve probably asked: what is the USSD code for First Bank? The answer is simple—but using it effectively requires understanding how it works, what you can do with it, and how to stay secure.
This in-depth, user-first guide explains First Bank’s official USSD code, how to activate it, all transactions you can perform, common issues, charges, and safety tips, based on the most up-to-date information available.
What Is the USSD Code for First Bank?
The official answer to what is the USSD code for First Bank is:
*894#
This is First Bank of Nigeria’s official FirstBank USSD banking code, also known as FirstBank Quick Banking. It allows customers to perform banking transactions directly from any GSM phone—smartphone or feature phone—without internet access.
The service works across all major Nigerian mobile networks, including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile.
What Is FirstBank USSD Banking and How Does It Work?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a GSM-based technology that enables real-time communication between your phone and the bank’s servers.
With FirstBank USSD:
- No mobile app is required
- No internet connection is needed
- Transactions are processed instantly
- It works on any phone, old or new
According to First Bank of Nigeria Plc, USSD banking was designed to improve financial inclusion and provide secure, convenient access to banking services nationwide.
How to Activate First Bank USSD Code (*894#)
Before you can fully use *894#, your phone number must be linked to your First Bank account.
Requirements for Activation
- An active First Bank account
- Phone number registered with the bank
- A valid ATM card (for first-time activation)
Activation Steps
- Dial *894# on your registered phone number
- Select “Register”
- Enter the last 6 digits of your FirstBank ATM card
- Create a 5-digit USSD PIN
- Confirm the PIN
Once completed, your USSD profile is activated and ready for transactions.
Activate *894# now if you haven’t—this is the fastest way to access your First Bank account without stress.
What Can You Do With the First Bank USSD Code?
The *894# service supports a wide range of everyday banking transactions.
1. Check Account Balance
Dial:
- *894*00#
Your available balance will be displayed instantly on your screen.
2. Transfer Money to First Bank Accounts
Dial:
- *894AmountAccountNumber#
Example:
- 8945000*1234567890#
This sends ₦5,000 to another First Bank account.
3. Transfer Money to Other Banks
Dial:
- *894AmountAccountNumber#
- Select the recipient’s bank from the list
Interbank transfers via USSD are supported in line with Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) standards.
4. Buy Airtime for Yourself
Dial:
- *894*Amount#
Example:
- 8941000#
This instantly credits your line with ₦1,000 airtime.
5. Buy Airtime for Others
Dial:
- *894AmountPhoneNumber#
Useful for sending airtime to family and friends.
6. Pay Bills and Utilities
Using *894#, you can pay for:
- Electricity (DISCOs)
- Cable TV (DSTV, GOtv, Startimes)
- Data subscriptions
- Selected government and merchant services
Follow the on-screen menu after dialing *894#.
7. Open a First Bank Account via USSD
Dial:
- *894*0#
This option allows eligible users to open a basic First Bank account directly from their phone, subject to regulatory limits set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Transaction Limits on First Bank USSD
To protect customers, First Bank places limits on USSD transactions.
Typical limits include:
- Daily transaction limit: up to ₦100,000 (subject to account tier)
- Single transfer limit: varies by customer profile
Limits may change based on CBN regulations and First Bank policies, so always confirm from official sources.
Charges for Using First Bank USSD Code
First Bank USSD transactions attract small service charges.
As guided by Nigerian banking regulations:
- Airtime purchases: usually free or minimal
- Transfers and bill payments: typically ₦6.98–₦10.75 per transaction
These charges are deducted directly from your bank account or airtime balance, depending on the transaction type.
Is First Bank USSD Code Safe?
Yes—when used correctly.
First Bank has confirmed that *894# uses:
- PIN-based authorization
- Session timeouts
- Device-number binding
Important Safety Tips
- Never share your USSD PIN
- Do not save your PIN on your phone
- Avoid dialing *894# on someone else’s device
- Report suspicious activity immediately
If your phone is stolen, contact First Bank customer care to block USSD access.
What to Do If *894# Is Not Working
If you’re having issues using the USSD code:
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
- Ensure you’re dialing from your registered phone number
- Confirm you have network signal
- Check that your line is not barred
- Restart your phone
If the issue persists, contact First Bank support through their official customer care channels listed on firstbanknigeria.com, the bank’s verified website.
First Bank USSD vs FirstMobile App
Both services serve different needs.
USSD Banking (*894#)
- Works without internet
- Ideal for basic transactions
- Best for feature phones and emergencies
FirstMobile App
- Requires internet access
- Supports advanced features
- Better for detailed account management
Many customers use both for maximum convenience. You may also find our guide on how to use First Bank mobile app for transfers helpful (internal link).
Who Should Use First Bank USSD Code?
The *894# service is ideal for:
- Users with limited or no internet access
- Rural and semi-urban customers
- People who prefer fast, simple banking
- Anyone needing emergency transfers
It remains one of the most reliable offline banking tools in Nigeria.
Final Thoughts: What Is the USSD Code for First Bank and Why It Matters
To recap, what is the USSD code for First Bank?
*894#
This single code gives you access to transfers, airtime, bill payments, balance checks, and even account opening—without data or a smartphone. It’s fast, secure, and designed for everyday banking in Nigeria.
Next step: If you haven’t activated *894#, do it today and enjoy stress-free banking anywhere, anytime.
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