The Central Bank of Nigeria have instructed all bank customers to link their National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN) to their bank account (s).
The apex bank had in a circular on December 1st 2023, directed that banks should place restrictions on all Tier 1 bank accounts without BVN.
Tier 1 accounts are accounts that can be opened with a valid identity or proof of address.
While some banks indicated February 29, 2024, as the deadline, some banks were silent about any deadline.
The National Identification Number (NIN) consists of 11 non-intelligible numbers randomly chosen and assigned to an individual after completing enrollment into the National Identity Database (NIDB).
Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a biometric technology with secure unique identifier to analyze human characteristics as an enhanced form of authentication for real-time security processes.
To link your BVN or NIN to your bank account, you can use one of the following methods
Via SMS
Simply text BVN/NIN, your account number, and BVN/NIN number to the number/code provided by your service provider or bank.
Via Internet Banking
Log in to the internet banking platform of your bank, select the BVN/NIN option, click on new request, enter your BVN/NIN, select the bank where your BVN/NIN was issued, answer the secret questions and follow the instructions.
Email Request
Send an email request to your account officer
Visit Your Bank
Visit your nearest bank branch