OPay USSD Codes: Complete Guide | (Best Tips)

By
Lucas Chibueze
Educational content and tutorial specialist with 4+ years of experience in the Nigerian EdTech space. Expert in creating step-by-step guides, how-to tutorials, and educational content that...
7 Min Read

OPay USSD codes are the fastest way to bank without internet in Nigeria. With the master code *955#, you can transfer money, buy airtime or data, pay bills, and manage security from any phone. This guide explains every code, step-by-step usage, limits, fees, safety, and troubleshooting so you can complete transactions confidently.

What OPay USSD Is and Why It Matters

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) connects your phone to OPay’s secure servers over the GSM network. It works on feature phones and smartphones without mobile data, making it reliable in low-connectivity areas. For market traders, commuters, and families, USSD offers fast, accessible, always-on banking.

Core Benefits

  • Works offline: No data required on any network.
  • Fast: Most transactions complete in seconds.
  • Secure: Protected by your PIN and short session timeouts.
  • Accessible: Simple menu prompts on any phone.

The Master Code You Should Know

*955# (Open the main menu)

Dial *955# to access the full menu: transfers, airtime, data, bills, card, and security. New users can start registration here and set a transaction PIN.

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Before You Start: Setup and Best Practices

First-Time Requirements

  • Register your phone number with OPay.
  • Create a secure 4–6 digit transaction PIN.
  • Complete KYC to raise limits (NIN, BVN, and address verification).

Safety Essentials

  • Never share your PIN with anyone.
  • Verify recipient name before confirming transfers.
  • End a session and redial if anything looks suspicious.

All Working OPay USSD Codes

Account & Security

  • Check balance: *955*0#
  • Get OTP: *955*010#
  • Block card (urgent): *955*132#
  • Activate card: *955*03121#
  • PIN reset: Use *955# → Security options

Transfers

  • To OPay: *955*1*Amount*RecipientPhone#
  • To bank: *955*2*Amount*AccountNumber# (select bank)

Airtime & Data

  • Airtime (self): *955*3*Amount#
  • Airtime (others): *955*3*Amount*RecipientPhone#
  • Data: *955*4*Phone# (choose plan)

Bills & Services

  • Electricity: *955*6# (enter meter and amount)
  • Betting: *955*5# (select platform)
  • Cable TV: Use *955# menu (select provider)

Step-by-Step Tutorials

Check Your OPay Balance

  1. Dial *955*0#.
  2. Enter your PIN if prompted.
  3. View your available balance instantly.

Transfer Money to OPay User

  1. Dial *955*1*Amount*RecipientPhone#.
  2. Confirm the name shown matches the recipient.
  3. Enter your PIN and approve.
  4. Keep the SMS confirmation for reference.

Transfer Money to a Bank Account

  1. Dial *955*2*Amount*AccountNumber#.
  2. Select the recipient’s bank from the list.
  3. Confirm the account name.
  4. Enter your PIN to complete.

Buy Airtime (Self)

  1. Dial *955*3*Amount#.
  2. Confirm network.
  3. Enter your PIN; airtime arrives instantly.

Buy Airtime (Others)

  1. Dial *955*3*Amount*RecipientPhone#.
  2. Verify the phone number displayed.
  3. Authorize with your PIN.

Buy Data

  1. Dial *955*4*Phone#.
  2. Select data plan and validity (daily, weekly, monthly).
  3. Confirm and authorize with your PIN.

Pay Electricity Bills

  1. Dial *955*6#.
  2. Select your DISCO and enter meter number.
  3. Confirm name and address, enter amount, then approve with PIN.

Transaction Limits and Fees

Account Tiers

  • Tier 1: Daily limit around ₦50,000 (basic verification).
  • Tier 2: Daily limit around ₦200,000 (additional KYC).
  • Tier 3: Daily limit up to ₦5,000,000 (full KYC).

Sample Fees

  • OPay → OPay: Low flat fee.
  • Interbank: Small fee per transfer.
  • Airtime: Typically zero fee.
  • Bills: Modest service fees are shown before you confirm.

Troubleshooting and Quick Fixes

USSD Not Working

  • Check signal bars; move to a better area.
  • End the session and dial *955# again.
  • Restart your phone if the session freezes.

Failed or Delayed Transactions

  • Confirm your balance and recipient details.
  • Wait for auto-reversal if debited without completion (usually within 24 hours).
  • Keep your reference or SMS for support follow-up.

Forgotten PIN

  • Dial *955# → Security → Forgot PIN.
  • Answer security prompts and set a new PIN.

Expert Tips for Smooth USSD Banking

  • Save frequent recipients to reduce mistakes.
  • Transact during strong signal hours when possible.
  • Upgrade your account tier to increase daily limits.

Pro insight: USSD is best for urgent, low-data scenarios. For large transfers, double-check names and amounts before you enter your PIN. Treat your PIN like a physical key—private and never shared.

Network-Specific Notes (Helpful Shortcuts)

Using OPay alongside network tools makes mobile life easier. For MTN users, learn how to manage essentials directly from your phone:

Cash Withdrawal via Agents (Cardless)

  1. Visit an authorized OPay agent kiosk.
  2. Provide your registered phone number and amount.
  3. Approve with your PIN; collect cash and receipt.

Conclusion

OPay USSD codes put essential banking in your dialer: transfers, airtime, data, bills, and security in seconds. Start with *955#, memorize your most-used shortcuts, keep your PIN private, and upgrade your tier for higher limits. With the right habits, USSD becomes your fastest, most reliable way to bank anywhere in Nigeria.

FAQs

Is OPay USSD safe to use?

Yes. Your session runs over GSM with a short timeout, and every transaction requires your private PIN. Keep your PIN confidential, verify names for transfers, and immediately block your card via *955*132# if you suspect compromise.

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Do I need internet for OPay USSD codes?

No. USSD works without mobile data on any phone. This makes it dependable in low-connectivity areas and for users who prefer quick, menu-based banking.

What are typical daily limits on OPay?

Limits depend on verification tier. Tier 1 suits light usage, Tier 2 increases headroom, and Tier 3 supports higher daily volumes after completing full KYC.

What if my USSD transaction fails?

Note the reference number, confirm your balance, and wait for auto-reversal if debited. Keep SMS confirmations. If not resolved after the usual window, contact support with your reference.

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Which OPay USSD code checks balance?

Dial *955*0# for instant balance. You may be asked to enter your PIN for security.

How do I transfer to a bank with USSD?

Use *955*2*Amount*AccountNumber#, select the bank, confirm the account name, and approve with your PIN.

Which code is the OPay USSD master menu?

Dial *955# to open the main USSD menu for transfers, airtime, data, bills, and security.

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Educational content and tutorial specialist with 4+ years of experience in the Nigerian EdTech space. Expert in creating step-by-step guides, how-to tutorials, and educational content that makes complex topics simple. Successfully launched 8 online courses with 15K+ enrolled students and created comprehensive learning materials. Passionate about helping people learn new skills through clear, actionable content.