How To Activate OPay USSD Code 2025/2026

OPay USSD: In Nigeria, one of the biggest shifts in how people send money, buy airtime and data, pay bills, and open accounts has been through mobile apps and USSD codes.

Among the fintech services making this easy is OPay. Whether you’re in an area with weak internet or you just prefer a faster way to transact, the OPay USSD service gives you access to many features without opening the app or using data.

This article will walk you through what the OPay USSD code is, how to activate it, how to use it, and all you need to know. By the end, you’ll understand how to use the service safely and effectively.

Let’s get started

What Is OPay USSD

USSD stands for “Unstructured Supplementary Service Data.” It’s a protocol used by mobile networks that allows you to dial short codes (usually starting with * and ending with #) to access services like checking balance, sending money, buying airtime, etc., without needing internet. The advantage: it works on any phone (smart or basic) and works even when data is off or connectivity is weak.

Also Read: How To Block Union Bank ATM Card: Step-By-Step Guide For 2025

OPay’s USSD service is simply the ability to use those short codes tied to your OPay account so you can transact (send money, buy airtime, check balance) without using the mobile app. It’s especially useful if you’re out, have poor internet, or you just prefer that quick dial method.

What Is The USSD Code Of OPay

The main USSD code for OPay in Nigeria is *955#. Here are some of the specific codes/functions:

• Check balance: *955*0#
• Generate OTP: *955*010#
• Transfer to another OPay account: *955*1*Amount*AccountNumber#
• Transfer to other bank: *955*2*Amount*AccountNumber#
• Buy airtime for self: *955*3*Amount#
• Buy airtime for others: *955*3*Amount*PhoneNumber#
• Data purchase: *955*4*PhoneNumber#
• Card activation: *955*03121#
• These codes may evolve, so always check OPay’s official channels if something doesn’t work.

Also Read: How To Activate Access Bank USSD Code

How Do I Activate OPay USSD Code

Activating the USSD service for OPay is fairly straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step process, explained simply:

Download & Create OPay Account

If you don’t already have an OPay account, you’ll need to get the OPay mobile app (from Google Play Store or Apple App Store), install it, and register with your phone number, name, set a PIN, verify your identity.

Ensure Phone Number Is Linked

Make sure the phone number you are using is the same and is linked with your OPay account. The USSD service works via that SIM and number.

Dial The Code

On your phone, dial *955#. This should pull up a menu of options for OPay transactions.

Set/Confirm Your Transaction PIN

Some codes will require you to enter your PIN. If you haven’t set a PIN yet (via the app or during registration) you’ll be prompted. Keep your PIN secret.

Follow Menu Options

After dialing *955#, you’ll see menu items like “Transfer”, “Buy Airtime”, “Check Balance”, etc. Use the number corresponding to your desired action, then follow prompts.

Complete First Transaction

To test that the USSD code is working, you might check your balance (*955*0#) or buy a small airtime amount. Once that works, you’re set.

Tips

• Always use the SIM that is registered to your OPay account.
• Keep your phone secure and your PIN confidential.
• If the code doesn’t work, ensure your number is fully registered and verified in the OPay app, and that your phone has mobile network (though internet not required for USSD).
• If you change SIMs or networks, you may need to re-register or ensure your number is active.

Is The OPay USSD Code Available 24/7

Yes, the USSD short code service for OPay is designed to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Because USSD operates over mobile network signalling rather than full internet, you can access it even when your data is off or internet is poor.

However, a few caveats:

If the mobile network has downtime, you may temporarily be unable to access the code.

If your account has issues (verification pending, registration incomplete, PIN blocked), certain services may be restricted.Some specific features (e.g., withdrawals via agent, POS) may depend on agent availability or other factors.

If OPay conducts maintenance, there may be brief service interruptions (as with any financial service).

In practical terms, you can count on the USSD code being available round-the-clock for normal operations.

How To open OPay Account With USSD

While the main account registration is usually done via the OPay mobile app, there are reports and instructions indicating you can initiate an OPay account using the USSD code, or at least link your phone number and account via USSD. Here’s how to do so:

• Dial *955#.
• Select the option like “Create Account” (this may appear in the menu).
• Enter your first name and last name when prompted.
• Choose a PIN for transactions.
• Confirm your PIN.
• You’ll receive an OTP via SMS; enter that to verify your phone number.
• Once verification is complete, your account should become active, and you can start using USSD codes.

Important note: While USSD registration is possible, you might get a smoother experience via the OPay app (for features like KYC, uploads of ID, linking bank account etc.).

Checking your balance on OPay via USSD is straightforward:

• Dial *955*0# from your registered phone number (the one linked to your OPay wallet).
• Enter your transaction PIN when prompted.
• You will receive an on-screen display (and sometimes an SMS) showing your current wallet balance.
• Alternatively, you can dial *955# then navigate through the menu to “Check Balance”.
• The result should appear on screen.

Remember: always dial from the phone number linked to your OPay account. If you use another SIM or number, the system may not recognise you.

How To Check OPay Balance With USSD Code

Which Company Owns OPay In Nigeria

OPay Nigeria is operated by OPay Digital Services Limited, formerly known as Paycom Nigeria Limited. The company was founded in 2013 (initially as Paycom Nigeria Limited) and rebranded later.

The parent or major backer is linked to Zhou Yahui, a Chinese billionaire and chairman/CEO of the browser company Opera Software.

In short: OPay is a licensed Nigerian fintech company, but it has significant Chinese backing and global investor interest.

OPay states on its “About Us” page: “We were established in 2018 with license from the Central Bank of Nigeria and insured by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation with the same insurance coverage like other commercial banks.”

Conclusion

Using short-codes via USSD is a fast, convenient way to access financial services — even without internet. With OPay’s USSD code (*955#), you can check your balance, transfer funds, buy airtime or data, pay bills, activate your card and more.

Getting set up is simple: create/link your account, dial *955#, set your PIN and follow the menu. The service is available 24/7, making it particularly valuable when you’re offline or working remotely. Just be sure to protect your PIN, verify your account, and use only trusted numbers and official codes.

OPay is backed by a globally-invested fintech company and is licensed in Nigeria, giving users added confidence. Once you’ve got it working, you’ll find that your phone becomes a mini-bank in your pocket.

Frequent Asked Questions – FAQs

What Is The Code To Call OPay

There isn’t a “call” code meaning to phone customer service in the standard sense via USSD. But the main USSD code for OPay transactions is *955#.

Can I Use OPay USSD On Any Phone

Yes, as long as the phone has a SIM card with your registered phone number, and the mobile network supports USSD, you can use the service, even on basic feature phones (non-smartphones). The USSD system does not require internet.

Which Bank Controls OPay

OPay is not a traditional bank in the sense of being a typical commercial bank; it is a fintech mobile money operator licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Is OPay A Real Bank

OPay is a legitimate financial services provider licensed by the CBN, insured by NDIC, which gives it a structure similar to banks in certain respects. But it functions more as a mobile-money operator/fintech rather than a full universal bank.

How Old Is OPay Now

OPay (formerly Paycom Nigeria Limited) traces back to 2013 for its founding.

Can I Use OPay On PC

OPay is designed primarily for mobile (app) and USSD usage. While you might access certain features via web or agent portals (depending on service), the core USSD code *955# is for use on a mobile phone.

Can I Open OPay With NIN

Yes, when you register and verify your identity, providing your National Identity Number (NIN) may be required for certain verification levels or tier upgrades. The more verification you complete, the higher your account limit.

Can Under 18 Use OPay

Typically, most financial services require you to be of legal age or have parental/guardian consent. For OPay, your verification (e.g., BVN) and compliance with their terms would likely mean under-18s may face restrictions or need a guardian. Always check OPay’s terms.

Can I Invest On OPay

OPay offers features like savings, wallets, etc., but whether “investing” in the sense of stocks or long-term assets is supported depends on their current product set. The USSD code is more for transactional services. Check the app for any investment modules.

Can OPay Convert Airtime To Cash

I did not find definitive official confirmation that OPay allows a direct “convert airtime to cash” feature via USSD. Always check the app or official documentation for current features.

Does CBN Recognize OPay

Yes, OPay is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Do Other Countries Use OPay

OPay has expanded to other markets (e.g., Egypt) as part of its growth. But the USSD code *955# is specific to Nigeria, and other countries may have different codes/regulations.

What Is The Full Name Of OPay

The full company name is OPay Digital Services Limited (commonly called OPay).

Is Money Safe In OPay

OPay is licensed, regulated, insured by NDIC, etc., which provides safety layers. However, as with any financial service: keep your PIN secret, use secure network, update app, and avoid sharing credentials.

Can OPay Receive Money From Canada

Receiving international transfers via mobile money operators like OPay depends on underlying banking partnerships and regulations. I did not find confirmation of Canada-to-OPay direct transfer via the USSD service.

How Rich Is OPay

OPay is valued in the billions of dollars. For example, it was estimated around US$2 billion in 2021.

How Many Branches Did OPay Have

OPay is more of a digital platform with agent networks, POS agents, etc., rather than traditional bank branches. I did not find a precise branch-count figure in my sources.

Can I Buy Bitcoin With My OPay

Buying bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies would depend on OPay’s regulation and product offerings. I did not find a verified USSD code or official support via USSD for bitcoin purchases. Use caution and check the official app.

How Much Is The OPay Limit Without BVN

According to one source, account tier without BVN may have lower limits — for example, Tier 1: Daily transaction limit ₦50,000, max account balance ₦300,000, with phone number/NIN only. Tier 2 (with BVN) higher.

Is BVN Compulsory For OPay

BVN (Bank Verification Number) is required for higher tiers of verification (which allow higher limits). So while you may open an account with phone/NIN, BVN becomes compulsory if you want to move up tiers.

For more information on OPay USSD, visit this blog post, https://dtunes.ng/blog/opay-ussd-codes