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 AppsMost 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 numbers2. Online Payment PlatformsFintech 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 subscriptions3. Telecom Provider Websites and AppsMajor 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 WebsitesWebsites 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 IntegrationSome 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.