How to Call in Nigeria from USA: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to calling Nigeria from the United States, there are a few things you need to know in order to make your communication seamless and cost-effective. Nigeria is a country located in West Africa, and it's the most populous country in Africa with over 200 million people. The country has a diverse telecommunications network, and the calling procedures might vary depending on your location and service provider. In this article, we'll explore the different ways you can call Nigeria from the USA, the costs involved, and some tips to ensure you have a smooth calling experience.

Overview of Calling Codes in Nigeria and USA

Before we dive into the calling procedures, let's explore the calling codes used in Nigeria and the USA.

Nigerian Calling Codes

Nigeria's country code is +234, and the following are some of the codes used for different states:

• Lagos: 01
• Abuja: 09
• Port Harcourt: 084

United States Calling Codes

The United States country code is +1, and it's followed by a three-digit area code and a seven-digit phone number.

How to Call Nigeria from USA: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we have an idea of the calling codes used in Nigeria and the USA, let's explore the different ways you can call Nigeria from the USA.

Method 1: Direct Dialing

Direct dialing is the most common method of calling Nigeria from the USA, and it's a straightforward process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Dial the US exit code, which is 011.
2. Dial Nigeria's country code, which is +234.
3. Dial the Nigerian area code (without the leading zero) followed by the phone number.

For example, if you want to call Lagos, the number would be 011 + 234 + 1 + XXX-XXXX.

Method 2: Using a VoIP Service

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a technology that allows you to make calls over the internet. There are many VoIP services available, including WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Voice. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Download and install the VoIP app on your phone or computer.
2. Sign up for an account and add credit or purchase a subscription to make calls.
3. Dial the Nigerian phone number using the app.

VoIP calls are usually cheaper than traditional phone calls, and they offer better sound quality. However, you'll need a stable internet connection to make VoIP calls.

Method 3: Using a Calling Card

A calling card is a prepaid card that you can use to make international calls. Calling cards are available at most convenience stores, and they offer competitive rates. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Purchase a calling card with international calling features.
2. Dial the access number provided on the card.
3. Follow the prompts and dial the Nigerian phone number.

Calling cards are a convenient option if you don't have access to a VoIP service or if you prefer not to use direct dialing.

Tips for Making Calls to Nigeria from USA

Here are some tips to ensure you have a smooth calling experience when calling Nigeria from the USA:

1. Check the time difference between your location and Nigeria. Nigeria is 5 hours ahead of the Eastern Time Zone in the USA.
2. Use a pre-paid service to avoid unexpected charges on your phone bill.
3. Use a good quality headset or speakerphone to ensure clear sound quality.
4. Avoid making calls during peak hours as they can be more expensive.
5. Consider using a local SIM card if you're planning to stay in Nigeria for an extended period.

Conclusion

Calling Nigeria from the USA might seem daunting, but with the right information, it can be a seamless and cost-effective process. Whether you choose to use direct dialing, VoIP services or calling cards, make sure you follow the steps outlined in this article to ensure you have a smooth calling experience.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to call Nigeria from the USA?

   • The cost of calling Nigeria from the USA varies depending on your service provider and calling method. Direct dialing is usually more expensive than using a VoIP service or calling card.

2. Can I use WhatsApp to call Nigeria from the USA?

   • Yes, WhatsApp offers a voice and video calling feature that you can use to call Nigeria from the USA.

3. Do I need to dial the leading zero when calling a Nigerian phone number?

   • No, you don't need to dial the leading zero when calling a Nigerian phone number.

4. What is the time difference between the USA and Nigeria?

   • Nigeria is 5 hours ahead of the Eastern Time Zone in the USA.

5. Can I use a local SIM card in Nigeria to make international calls?

   • Yes, you can use a local SIM card in Nigeria to make international calls, but you'll need to ensure that the card has international calling features.