On February 14, 2014, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), together with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), introduced the BVN (Bank Verification Number). The BVN is an 11-digit number that helps to identify all customers of financial institutions in Nigeria.
Your BVN is linked to your bank accounts and is used by banks to recognize you as a customer. Similar to your National Identification Number (NIN), your BVN is connected to your biometric information, which includes your date of birth, full name, and contact details.
These details are collected when you register for a BVN at any bank or authorized registration center. The main purpose of the BVN is to enhance financial security in Nigeria by preventing fraud and financial crimes.
Checking BVN through NIN
There are several ways to retrieve and check your Bank Verification Numbers (BVN). Some of those ways includes: *565*0# USSD code, NIBSS BVN Retrieval and Validation Portal, Contacting BVN Helpdesk through your Bank and through the National Identity Management Commission Office (NIMC).
However, if you have registered for your National Identification Number (NIN) and have your ID details, you can visit any NIMC office. By providing your correct information, they can quickly assist you in retrieving your BVN.
Furthermore, you can also get your BVN via the NIMC official website. To check your BVN on the NIMC website, visit the official NIMC website and log in with your existing account credentials or register for a new account using your National Identification Number (NIN). Once logged in, navigate to the section where you can manage your identity details, and you should find an option to view or retrieve your BVN by providing the necessary information.
FAQs
How can I check my BVN Online?
You can check your BVN online through your bank’s internet banking platform or mobile banking app by logging in and navigating to the account details or profile section where your BVN is usually displayed. You can also check your BVN on the NIBSS BVN Retrieval Portal and via NIMC website. Alternatively, you can dial the USSD code *565*0# on your registered mobile number to retrieve your BVN.
How can I get a Free BVN Number?
To get a free BVN (Bank Verification Number), visit any bank branch or authorized BVN enrollment center in Nigeria. The process is free of charge. You will need to fill out an enrollment form and provide your biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph. Once your details are processed, you will receive your unique BVN.
How can I get my BVN without my SIM card?
To retrieve your BVN without using your SIM card, visit your bank branch and request assistance from the customer service desk. Provide identification and answer security questions to verify your identity. You can also check your BVN on your bank statements, which may include your BVN in the account details section. If you have access to your bank's internet banking platform or mobile app, you can log in and find your BVN in the account profile or details section.
How to check BVN on MTN?
To check your BVN on MTN, simply dial *565*0# from the mobile number registered with your BVN. A message displaying your BVN will appear on your screen, and you may be charged a small fee for this service.