How to Block and Unblock Your Bank Account in Nigeria

Bank accounts are at the heart of modern life in Nigeria. From receiving salaries and sending money to paying school fees, rent, or business expenses, most Nigerians depend on their bank accounts every single day. But as digital banking continues to expand, the risks of fraud, theft, SIM swaps, and unauthorized access also grow.

That’s why it’s important to know how to block and unblock your bank account in Nigeria. Blocking your account is a way of freezing it to prevent fraudulent withdrawals, while unblocking restores access once the issue has been resolved.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — when to block your account, the methods each bank provides (USSD, mobile apps, BVN, branch visits), and how to safely unblock when necessary. This article will also cover security tips, future banking innovations, and frequently asked questions to give you a complete picture.

When Should You Block Your Bank Account?

Blocking an account is not something you do every day. It’s usually an emergency step when your funds are at risk. Common scenarios include:

• Lost or Stolen Phone – Since most Nigerians use mobile banking apps and USSD codes, a lost phone can give fraudsters access to accounts.
• Stolen ATM/Debit Card – If your card is missing, blocking your account prevents unauthorized withdrawals.
• Suspicious Transactions – Unexpected SMS alerts for transfers or withdrawals may mean your account has been compromised.
• Phishing or Scam Attacks – If you mistakenly revealed banking details online or to a scammer, blocking your account can prevent damage.
• SIM Swap Fraud – A criminal could hijack your phone number and intercept OTPs.
• Unauthorized Login Attempts – Some banks notify you if someone tries to log into your account from a new device.

By blocking your bank account quickly, you limit damage and protect your money.

Methods of Blocking a Bank Account in Nigeria

Different Nigerian banks provide several channels to block accounts. Here are the main ones:

a) Using USSD Codes

Most banks allow you to block your account instantly via USSD short codes, even without internet. Examples:

• GTBank → Dial 73751*74# from your registered phone line.
• First Bank → Dial 894911# to block your account.
• Access Bank → Dial 901911# to block your account instantly.
• UBA → Dial 919911# to freeze your account.
• Zenith Bank → Dial 966911# for quick account blocking.
• Fidelity Bank → Dial 770911#.
• Keystone Bank → Dial 7111911#.

👉 Note: You must use your registered mobile number for these USSD codes to work.

b) Through Mobile Banking Apps

Many banks allow account blocking through their apps. For example:

• GTWorld App (GTBank) has a “block account” feature.
• FirstMobile App (First Bank) allows card deactivation.
• AccessMore App (Access Bank) has account freeze options.

c) By Contacting Customer Service

You can also block your account by calling your bank’s helpline:

• GTBank → 0700 4826 66328
• First Bank → +234 1 905 2326
• Access Bank → 0700 300 0000
• Zenith Bank → +234 1 278 7000

Always call using the official numbers from the bank’s website.

d) Visiting a Bank Branch

If you can’t use USSD or apps, walk into the nearest bank branch with a valid ID and request an account block.

e) Blocking via BVN (Central Bank of Nigeria)

The BVN (Bank Verification Number) is a central database for all Nigerian banks. If you block your BVN, it automatically blocks access to all linked accounts across multiple banks.

To do this, you must contact your bank or the CBN-approved channels.

How to Unblock Your Bank Account in Nigeria

Once the risk is resolved, you’ll need to restore access. The unblocking process depends on why the account was blocked.

a) If You Blocked It Yourself

• Visit your bank branch with a valid ID card (NIN slip, driver’s license, passport, or voter’s card).
• Request unblocking by filling out a reactivation form.
• Provide your BVN and account number.
• In some cases, you may need to submit an affidavit or police report (if fraud was involved).

b) If the Bank Suspended Your Account

Banks may block accounts due to regulatory issues (e.g., incomplete KYC, suspicious transactions, or CBN directives). To unblock:

• Provide all required KYC documents.
• Resolve flagged transactions.
• Update your details at the bank branch.

c) Through Mobile Apps or Online Banking

Some banks allow customers to unblock accounts directly from the app once security checks are passed.

d) Timeline for Unblocking

• Simple customer-initiated blocks → same day.
• Fraud or compliance-related blocks → 2–7 working days depending on investigation.

Differences Between Blocking and Deactivating a Card

It’s important to note:

• Blocking your account freezes all activities (debits, transfers, withdrawals).
• Blocking your debit/ATM card only prevents card transactions but leaves mobile/online banking active.

For maximum safety during fraud attempts, block the entire account, not just the card.

Security Tips to Protect Your Bank Account

• Always enable SMS and email alerts for every transaction.
• Never share your OTP or PIN with anyone, not even bank staff.
• Beware of fake bank numbers on Google or social media. Always verify on the official website.
• Use strong app passwords and enable biometrics if supported.
• Regularly check your bank statement for unknown deductions.
• Report lost SIMs to your network provider to prevent SIM swaps.
• Update your BVN details if you change phone numbers.

Future of Account Security in Nigeria (2025 and Beyond)

• AI Fraud Detection – Banks are adopting AI to automatically detect unusual transactions.
• Stronger KYC Measures – NIN integration with BVN will make fraud harder.
• Fintech Partnerships – Mobile money and fintechs like OPay, PalmPay, and Moniepoint are expanding quick security tools.
• Blockchain & Digital Currency – The eNaira and other digital tools may reduce fraud by improving transparency.

FAQs on Blocking and Unblocking Bank Accounts in Nigeria

Q1: How can I block my bank account with my BVN?
Ans: Visit your bank branch or use official BVN-linked USSD codes provided by your bank.

Q2: Can I block my bank account online in Nigeria?
Ans: Yes, through your bank’s mobile app or internet banking portal.

Q3: How long does it take to unblock my account?
Ans: Self-blocked accounts can be restored same day. Fraud-related blocks may take up to 7 days.

Q4: Can I block my account if I lost my SIM card?
Ans: Yes, use another phone to dial your bank’s USSD code with your BVN, or visit a branch immediately.

Q5: What happens if my account was wrongly blocked?
Ans: Contact your bank with ID and proof. They must restore your account once cleared.

Q6: Can someone withdraw from my account if it’s blocked?
Ans: No, once blocked, all debit transactions are suspended.

Q7: Do microfinance banks also allow blocking and unblocking?
Ans: Yes, though many require branch visits instead of USSD codes.

Q8: Can I block only my ATM card without freezing my account?
Ans: Yes, via your bank’s mobile app or USSD.

Q9: Can I block my account if I’m outside Nigeria?
Ans: Yes, through customer care hotlines, mobile apps, or email support.

Q10: Is it free to block and unblock my bank account?
Ans: Yes, most banks provide this service free of charge.

Final Thoughts

In Nigeria today, knowing how to block and unblock your bank account is not just a financial skill — it’s a security necessity. Whether you lost your phone, suspect fraud, or want to freeze your account temporarily, banks provide multiple options via USSD codes, mobile apps, customer care, and BVN.

Unblocking your account is also straightforward once you provide proper identification and resolve any flagged issues.

As banking becomes more digital, Nigerians must stay alert, adopt strong security habits, and know how to act fast in case of emergencies. Protecting your money starts with being informed.