5 Ways to Buy Airtime Online in Nigeria Without USSD or Scratch Cards

Buying airtime in Nigeria was a manual process. You’d have to visit a local vendor, buy a scratch card, scratch off the code, and then dial a USSD code to top up. 

But with the rise of fintech apps and banking platforms, buying airtime has become much faster, easier, and more convenient. Now, you can buy airtime online in just a few minutes, without the need for USSD codes or scratch cards.

Here’s how you can recharge your airtime online in 2025.

1. Bank Mobile Apps

Most Nigerian banks have mobile apps that allow you to buy airtime directly from your account. These apps are fast, secure, and user-friendly. You can top up for yourself or others in just a few taps.

Popular bank apps include:

• GTWorld (GTBank)
  
• AccessMore (Access Bank)
  
• Zenith Bank App
  
• FirstMobile (First Bank)
  
• Kuda Bank
  

Pros:

• No extra charges for most banks
  
• Instant recharge
  
• Option to save frequent numbers

2. Online Payment Platforms

Fintech apps like Opay, PalmPay, Kuda, and Moniepoint have made airtime purchases easier with smooth user interfaces and regular cashback offers. Simply download the app, fund your wallet, and buy airtime instantly.

Why use fintech apps?

• Fast and easy transactions
  
• Loyalty rewards and discounts
  
• Ability to pay for other services like data, electricity, and TV subscriptions

3. Telecom Provider Websites and Apps

Major network providers in Nigeria like MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile have their own mobile apps or websites where you can buy airtime.

Examples:

• MyMTN App
  
• MyAirtel App
  
• Glo Café App
  
• 9mobile App
  

Just register with your number, add a payment method (like a debit card), and recharge instantly.

4. Recharge Websites

Websites like VTpass, Quickteller, and Recharge2Cash let you buy airtime online through your browser. You don’t even need to download an app.

Steps to use:

• Visit the site
  
• Enter your phone number and amount
  
• Choose your payment method
  
• Get credited instantly
  

Bonus: Many of these platforms support payments for data bundles, electricity, and cable TV.

5. Messaging Apps with Payment Integration

Some platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram now support bots or mini-apps that allow you to buy airtime right in the chat window. While still new in Nigeria, some fintech startups are starting to explore this route for faster, conversational payments.