Access Bank Nigeria Plc, established in 1989, began operations as a privately owned commercial bank before being listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1998. It underwent major transformation in 2002 under new leadership, evolving into one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions. In 2012, Access Bank acquired Intercontinental Bank, significantly expanding its customer base and asset size.
The bank continued to grow through strategic mergers, including its 2019 merger with Diamond Bank. Today, Access Bank is part of Access Holdings Plc and operates across Africa and beyond, offering retail, corporate, and investment banking services with a strong digital presence.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to Access Bank’s USSD codes and services, as of today, June 17, 2025.
How to Register and Activate Access Bank USSD
Access Bank’s USSD service, accessed via the code *901#, provides a convenient way for customers to perform various banking transactions directly from their mobile phones without needing internet access or a smartphone. This service is particularly beneficial for those in areas with limited internet connectivity or who prefer a simpler banking method.
To use the *901# service, you must first register. Here’s how:
Here’s a breakdown of the essential USSD codes and their functions:
Key USSD Codes and Functions
Ensure Eligibility: You need an active Access Bank account and a mobile number linked to your account.
*Dial 901#: Dial *901# on your mobile phone.
Follow Prompts: Follow the on-screen instructions to register. You may be asked to provide your account number, BVN, and create a 4-digit PIN for transaction authorization.
The Access Bank USSD service offers several advantages:
Advantages of Access Bank USSD
- Check Balance: Dial *901*00#
- Buy Airtime (Self): Dial 901Amount# (e.g., *901*1000# for ₦1000)
- Buy Airtime (Others): Dial *901*AmountPhone Number# (e.g., *901*10000*08012345678#)
- Transfer to Access Bank Account: Dial *901*AMOUNTNUBAN Account Number# (e.g., *901*1000*1234512345#)
- Transfer to Other Banks: Dial *901*AMOUNTNUBAN Account Number# (e.g., *901*1000*1234512345#)
- Pay Bills: Dial *901*3# and follow the prompts
- Deactivate Account: Dial *901*911# from any mobile phone and input the registered phone number to blacklist your USSD profile
Access Bank employs security measures to protect your transactions:
Security Measures
- Convenience: Access banking services anytime, anywhere, without visiting a branch
- Accessibility: Works on all types of mobile phones, including feature phones, and does not require internet access
- Speed: Transactions are generally fast and efficient
- Cost-Effectiveness: The service is free to register, though standard transaction fees may apply
If you encounter issues:
Troubleshooting
- PIN Authentication: All transactions require a 4-digit PIN for authorization
- Account Blocking: You can block your USSD profile immediately if your phone is lost or compromised by dialing *901*911#
- Transaction Limits: There are daily limits on transfers and airtime purchases to prevent fraud
- Incorrect PIN: Reset your PIN by dialing *901# and following the prompts
- Transaction Errors: Double-check the details entered and ensure sufficient funds are available
- Network Issues: Ensure a stable network connection
- Contact Support: Contact Access Bank customer service for assistance
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Access Bank USSD code is *901#. The most relevant part is: *Dial *901# to access the USSD menu and follow the prompts to perform various banking transactions, including balance checking, airtime purchases, fund transfers, and bill payments.
