In Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has mandated the linking of the National Identification Number (NIN) to all bank accounts. This initiative aims to enhance the security of the financial system, combat identity theft, and improve customer identification.
This blog post offers a comprehensive guide on linking your NIN to your access bank account, addressing relevant questions and providing step-by-step instructions for various methods.
Table of Contents
Understanding NIN and its Importance
The National Identification Number (NIN) is a unique 11-digit number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to every Nigerian citizen and legal resident. It serves as a central identity database, facilitating efficient identification and verification across various sectors, including banking.
Benefits of Linking NIN to Bank Accounts:
- Enhanced Security: Linking your NIN to your bank account strengthens account security by providing an additional layer of authentication, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access your funds.
- Improved Customer Identification: NIN helps banks accurately identify their customers, minimizing the risk of fraudulent activities and promoting financial inclusion.
- Streamlined Processes: Linking NIN with bank accounts can simplify various banking processes, such as account opening, loan applications, and other transactions.
Who Needs to Link Their NIN to Bank Accounts?
All individuals with existing bank accounts in Nigeria are required to link their NIN to their accounts before the deadline set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Failure to do so may lead to restrictions or even the closure of your bank account.
It is important to note that this requirement applies to all account types, including savings accounts, current accounts, and domiciliary accounts.
Methods for Linking NIN to Bank Accounts
There are several ways to link your NIN to your access bank account, depending on your preferred method. Here’s an overview of the most common methods:
Access bank NIN linking code
Here are the steps to follow:
- Dial *901*11# from your registered phone number.
- Follow the prompts on the screen and enter your NIN and BVN when requested.
- Confirm your details and submit.
- You will receive a confirmation message that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Access Bank account.
Via website
Here are the steps to follow:
- Visit the Access Bank website at www.accessbankplc.com or https://www.accessbankplc.com/help/bank-verification-number.
- Click on the “NIN/BVN Linkage” banner on the homepage or go to www.accessbankplc.com/nin-bvn-linkage.
- Enter your Access Bank account number, NIN, and BVN in the fields provided.
- Click on the “Submit” button and wait for the verification process.
- You will receive a confirmation message that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Access Bank account.
Via access bank mobile app
- Download and install the Access Bank mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
- Launch the app and log in with your username and password.
- Tap on the menu icon at the top left corner of the screen and select “NIN/BVN Linkage”.
- Enter your Access Bank account number, NIN, and BVN in the fields provided.
- Tap on the “Submit” button and wait for the verification process.
- You will receive a confirmation message that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Access Bank account.
Via access bank branch
- Visit any Access Bank branch near you and approach the customer service desk.
- Request for a NIN linkage form and fill it with your details.
- Attach a copy of your ID card and your NIN slip (or any document showing your NIN) to the form.
- Submit the form and wait for the verification process.
- You will receive a confirmation message that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Access Bank account.
Via access bank ATM
Here are the steps to follow:
- Visit any Access Bank ATM near you and insert your Access Bank debit card.
- Enter your PIN and select “NIN/BVN Linkage” from the menu options.
- Enter your NIN and BVN when prompted and confirm your details.
- Wait for the verification process and collect your receipt.
- You will receive a confirmation message that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Access Bank account.
How to Link your BVN to your Access Bank account
You can link your BVN to your Access Bank account through the following methods:
- Via Website
- Via SMS (Simply text BVN, your account number and BVN number to 20121 e.g. BVN 06812345678 22498765432 to 20121 )
- Via Internet Banking
– Login on the Internet Banking platform
– Select the Service Requests Menu
– Select Initiate Service Request
– Select Link BVN
How to enrol for BVN
- Visit any Access Bank branch and complete the enrolment form
- Your biometric data (fingerprint, photograph and signature) will be captured on the system
- You will then receive a Ticket ID
- BVN will be sent to your registered mobile number
