Traveling and maintaining your privacy can be challenging, especially in Nigeria, where mobile connectivity is a lifeline for communication and navigation. Whether you’re avoiding unsolicited calls or wish to remain anonymous during a specific call, learning how to hide your phone number is essential. As someone who values privacy and efficiency during my travels across Nigeria, I’ve explored the easiest ways to activate this feature across MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9mobile. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay incognito while staying connected.
Key Takeaways
- All major Nigerian networks offer free number-hiding services.
- The USSD method works instantly without modifying your phone’s settings.
- For a permanent solution, adjust your Caller ID settings in the dialer.
Why Hide Your Phone Number?
There are many valid reasons to hide your phone number, including:
- Avoiding Spam: Reduce the chances of receiving spam calls or texts.
- Maintaining Privacy: Keep your number private when making inquiries or casual calls.
- Professional Boundaries: Maintain a distinction between personal and professional contacts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiding Your Phone Number
1. MTN Nigeria
USSD Code Method:
- Dial
#31#followed by the number you want to call (e.g.,#31#08012345678). - Press the call button. Your number will be hidden for that specific call.
Permanent Setting:
- Open your phone’s dialer settings.
- Navigate to Call Settings > Additional Settings > Caller ID.
- Select Hide Number.
Pricing:
This service is free on MTN.
My Experience:
I frequently used MTN’s #31# method when calling local guides or service providers to avoid unsolicited follow-up calls. It worked seamlessly every time.
2. Airtel Nigeria
USSD Code Method:
- Dial
#31#before the recipient’s number (e.g.,#31#07087654321). - Hit the call button.
Permanent Setting:
- Go to Settings on your phone.
- Click on Call Settings > Additional Settings > Caller ID.
- Choose Hide Number.
Pricing:
Airtel does not charge for hiding your number.
My Experience:
Using Airtel’s feature was straightforward and reliable. However, ensure you’re in an area with good network coverage to avoid call drops.
3. Glo Nigeria
USSD Code Method:
- Dial
#31#followed by the recipient’s number (e.g.,#31#08123456789). - Press the call button.
Permanent Setting:
- Access your phone’s settings.
- Navigate to Call Settings > Caller ID.
- Select Hide Number.
Pricing:
Glo offers this service free of charge.
My Experience:
Glo’s service was reliable, especially during my visits to more remote parts of Nigeria. The USSD method worked perfectly, even on older devices.
4. 9mobile Nigeria
USSD Code Method:
- Dial
#31#before the number (e.g.,#31#09012345678). - Hit the call button.
Permanent Setting:
- Open your dialer’s settings.
- Click on Additional Settings > Caller ID.
- Select Hide Number.
Pricing:
This service is also free on 9mobile.
My Experience:
I found 9mobile’s feature handy when dealing with businesses during my Lagos trip. The service was quick and efficient.
Pricing Comparison Table
| Network | Method | Pricing | Reliability | User Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTN | USSD and Settings | Free | High | 4.8/5 |
| Airtel | USSD and Settings | Free | High | 4.7/5 |
| Glo | USSD and Settings | Free | Moderate | 4.5/5 |
| 9mobile | USSD and Settings | Free | High | 4.6/5 |
FAQs
1. Will my hidden number be revealed in text messages?
No, hiding your number applies only to voice calls. Text messages will display your number.
2. Can I hide my number permanently?
Yes, use the Caller ID settings to permanently hide your number.
3. Does this work for international calls?
Yes, the #31# method works for international calls, depending on your network’s policies.
4. Are there any risks to hiding my number?
Some recipients may not answer calls from hidden numbers, mistaking them for spam.
Additional Tips
- Test the feature before making important calls to ensure it works.
- If you encounter issues, contact your network provider’s customer care:
Staying connected while protecting your privacy is invaluable for a traveler or anyone navigating Nigeria’s bustling lifestyle. These methods have been lifesavers for me, offering the anonymity I needed without compromising functionality. Try them out and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with staying incognito.
