This guide provides a simple, step-by-step process for calling Nigeria from anywhere in the world, covering the country code, area codes, and mobile number formats.
Nigeria's International Dialing Code
The international country code for Nigeria is +234. Every call to Nigeria from another country must start with this code.
Understanding Nigerian Phone Number Formats
Nigerian phone numbers have a specific structure. After the country code, you dial either an area code for a landline or a mobile number. A crucial rule is to remove the leading zero from the domestic area code or mobile number when dialing internationally.
Landline Numbers: Consist of a one or two-digit area code and a local number.
Mobile Numbers: Are 10 digits long domestically (starting with "0") and typically begin with prefixes like 70, 80, 81, or 90.
For example, a landline in Lagos with a domestic number of 01 123 4567 becomes +234 1 123 4567 when dialed from abroad. A mobile number like 0801 234 5678 is dialed as +234 801 234 5678.
How to Call Nigeria from a Mobile Phone
Calling from a mobile phone is the easiest method for international dialing.
Steps for Mobile Dialing:
Enter the
+symbol in your phone's dialer.Type Nigeria's country code: 234.
Enter the area code or mobile number, making sure to omit the leading "0".
Dial the rest of the local number.
How to Call Nigeria from a Landline
When using a landline, you must start with your country's international exit code.
Steps for Landline Dialing:
Dial your country's exit code (e.g., 011 from the US/Canada, 00 from the UK).
Dial Nigeria's country code: 234.
Enter the Nigerian area code or mobile number without the initial "0".
Dial the local subscriber number.
For example, a caller in the United States would dial a mobile number in Nigeria as: 011 234 801 234 5678.
Common Nigerian Area Codes
1: Lagos
9: Abuja
82: Aba
62: Kaduna
84: Port Harcourt
Time Zone in Nigeria
Nigeria operates on West Africa Time (WAT), which is UTC+1. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time zone remains consistent throughout the year. Remember to check the time difference before placing your call.
Using Apps for Cheaper Calls
International call rates to Nigeria can be high. To save money, consider using internet-based calling apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber. These services use your Wi-Fi or mobile data to make calls, often at a much lower cost than traditional phone companies, especially for calls to mobile numbers.
