How to Call Nigeria
Complete guide to dialing Nigeria (country code +234)
Whether you're connecting with family, managing business relationships, or planning a trip, knowing how to call Nigeria is essential for seamless communication. Calling Nigeria from abroad might seem complicated at first, but with the right information, it's straightforward and hassle-free. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to make successful calls to Nigeria, including step-by-step dialing instructions for landlines and mobile phones. We'll cover the most common mistakes people make when calling Nigeria and how to avoid them, share important phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently connecting with contacts across Nigeria without any confusion.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Nigeria: Complete International Calling Guide
Calling Nigeria requires understanding the international dialing format and Nigeria's country code system. Nigeria's country code is +234, and proper formatting ensures your calls connect successfully.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for calling Nigeria is: Exit Code + 234 + Area Code (without leading zero) + Local Number
Step-by-Step Instructions by Country
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 234 (Nigeria's country code)
- Drop the leading 0 from the Nigerian number
- Dial the remaining digits
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 234
- Drop the leading 0
- Dial the remaining digits
From other countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code, though some differ. Alternatively, dial + (available on mobile phones) instead of the exit code.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Lagos Mobile Number (080X XXX XXXX):
- From USA: 011-234-80X-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-234-80X-XXX-XXXX
- Universal format: +234-80X-XXX-XXXX
Example 2 - Lagos Landline (01 XXXX XXXX):
- From USA: 011-234-1-XXXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-234-1-XXXX-XXXX
- Universal format: +234-1-XXXX-XXXX
Example 3 - Abuja Mobile Number (090X XXX XXXX):
- From USA: 011-234-90X-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-234-90X-XXX-XXXX
- Universal format: +234-90X-XXX-XXXX
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Nigerian phone numbers always start with 0 when dialing domestically (like 0803, 0701, or 01 for Lagos). When calling internationally, always remove this leading zero. For example, a Nigerian mobile number 0803 456 7890 becomes 234-803-456-7890 when dialed internationally.
Nigerian mobile numbers typically start with 070, 080, 081, 090, or 091, while major city landline codes include 1 (
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Common Mistakes
When calling Nigeria, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Not dropping the leading zero - Nigerian phone numbers start with 0 domestically (like 0803), but you must remove this zero when dialing internationally. From the US, dial 011-234-803-XXX-XXXX, not 011-234-0803-XXX-XXXX.
Using the wrong exit code - Different countries have different exit codes. The US and Canada use 011, while most European countries use 00, and mobile phones can use + instead. Verify your country's exit code before dialing.
Confusing the country code with area codes - Nigeria's country code is +234 for the entire nation. The digits following (like 803, 805, 701) are mobile carrier prefixes or city codes, not separate country codes.
Incorrect number length - Nigerian mobile numbers have 10 digits after removing the leading zero. If your number seems too short or long, double-check the format. The complete international format should be: +234-XXX-XXX-XXXX.
Adding unnecessary spaces or symbols - While spaces help readability, some phone systems can't process them. When entering numbers digitally, use continuous digits without spaces or dashes.
Cultural Etiquette
In Nigeria, phone etiquette reflects the country's warm, relationship-oriented culture where respect and pleasantries are highly valued.
When answering calls, Nigerians typically exchange elaborate greetings before discussing the main purpose. Don't rush into business immediately. Ask about the person's wellbeing, family, and day. A simple "How are you?" isn't enough—expect a back-and-forth exchange that builds rapport.
For business calls, maintain a respectful, slightly formal tone, especially with elders or superiors. Use titles like "Sir," "Ma," "Oga," or professional designations. However, personal calls among friends are warm and casual, often featuring friendly banter and extended conversations.
The best times to call are between 9 AM and 8 PM. Avoid early mornings before 8 AM or late nights after 9 PM unless it's urgent or you have a close relationship. Lunch hours (1-2 PM) are generally acceptable.
Regarding voice messages, many Nigerians prefer speaking directly rather than leaving voicemails. If someone misses your call, they'll often call back instead of checking messages. Text messages announcing your call or explaining its purpose are common and appreciated.
Important cultural considerations include addressing elders with extra courtesy, being patient with longer-than-expected conversations, and understanding that Nigerians value personal connection. Abruptly ending calls or being too brief can seem rude. Always allow time for proper goodbyes, which may include blessings or well-wishes.
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Emergency Numbers
Police Emergency: 112 or 199
Ambulance: 112 or (ambulance services vary by state)
Fire Department: 112
National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA): 112
Road Safety (FRSC): 122
Lagos State Emergency (LASEMA): 767 or 112
Nigeria operates a unified emergency number 112 that connects to police, ambulance, and fire services. This number works from all mobile and landline phones and is free to call. However, response times and service quality vary significantly between urban and rural areas. The 112 service operates 24/7 with English-speaking operators available.
Important Note: Emergency response infrastructure remains limited in many regions. In Lagos and Abuja, services are more reliable. Keep local hospital numbers and private ambulance services handy as backup options. Some states have additional local emergency numbers worth researching before traveling.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 199: Directory Enquiries for local phone numbers and business listings
International Services
- 190: International Operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Support
- Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation: +234-9-2903582 for visitor information and travel guidance
Embassy Contacts
- Contact your home country's embassy in Abuja or consulate in Lagos for citizen services. Keep these numbers saved before traveling.
Additional Useful Numbers
- 112: Multi-purpose helpline (some networks)
- Nigerian Communications Commission: +234-9-4617000 for telecom complaints
- Consumer Protection Council: +234-1-8889862 for consumer rights issues
Tip: Save your mobile network provider's customer service number (typically found on their website) for account issues, data purchases, and technical support during your stay.
Tips for Calling Nigeria
When calling Nigeria, consider that the country operates on West Africa Time (WAT), UTC+1, with no daylight saving changes. To reach contacts during business hours, call between 9 AM and 5 PM WAT, which translates to 3 AM-11 AM EST or 12 AM-8 AM PST.
For international calls, avoid peak hours (8-10 AM and 5-7 PM WAT) when network congestion is highest. Off-peak times—early mornings or late evenings—often provide clearer connections and potentially lower rates from some carriers.
Always schedule business calls in advance, confirming appointments via email or WhatsApp. Nigerians appreciate punctuality and professional courtesy. Note that typical business hours are Monday through Friday, with some offices working Saturday mornings.
Avoid calling during major holidays: New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Independence Day (October 1), and Christmas. Fridays can be challenging for reaching Muslim contacts due to afternoon prayers.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and clearly, as connections can occasionally be poor. Have a backup communication method ready, such as WhatsApp or email, if call quality deteriorates.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Nigeria is +234. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Nigeria from anywhere in the world. It identifies Nigeria within the global telephone numbering system.
To dial Nigeria from your cell phone, start with + (or 011 in the US), then dial 234 (Nigeria's country code), followed by the local phone number without the leading zero. For example: +234 XXX XXX XXXX.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from Nigerian phone numbers when calling internationally. Nigerian numbers start with 0 domestically, but when dialing from abroad, remove the 0 and add the country code +234 instead.
The cheapest way to call Nigeria is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Nigeria.
In Nigeria, the main emergency number is 112 for general emergencies. You can also dial 199 for fire services, 767 for ambulance services in Lagos, and 122 for road safety. These numbers connect you to emergency responders across the country.
Yes, you can call Nigeria directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, enter the Nigerian phone number you want to call, and start your conversation—no downloads or installations required.
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