Nigeria, a country located in West Africa, is the most populous country in Africa, with over 200 million people. With such a large population, communication is essential, and making calls is one of the most popular means of communication in the country. However, the process of making a call in Nigeria can be quite confusing, especially for foreigners who are not familiar with the country's telecommunication system. This article will guide you on how to call in Nigeria, including the country code, area codes, and other relevant information.
Table of Contents
Nigeria Country Code
Before you make a call to Nigeria, you need to have the country code, which is +234. This code is essential for international calls, and it should be added before the phone number you intend to call. If you're making a call from outside Nigeria, you'll need to dial your country's international access code, followed by Nigeria's country code, and finally the phone number you want to reach.
Knowing the Area Codes
Nigeria has over 36 states, and each state has its area code. Knowing the area codes is essential, especially when making calls within the country. The area code is usually the first three digits of the phone number, and it indicates the state where the call is being made. For instance, the area code for Lagos state is 01 or 070, while that of Abuja is 09. If you're calling from outside Nigeria, you may not need to dial the area code, depending on the phone service provider you're using.
Using Mobile Phones in Nigeria
Mobile phones are the most popular means of communication in Nigeria, and almost everyone has one. The country has four major telecommunication service providers, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile. If you're using a mobile phone in Nigeria, you'll need to have a SIM card from one of these service providers, and you'll also need to have airtime to make calls. The process of making a call from a mobile phone is straightforward. Simply dial the phone number you want to reach, including the area code, if necessary, and press the call button.
Using Landlines in Nigeria
Landlines are not as popular as mobile phones in Nigeria, but they're still in use in some parts of the country, especially in government offices and businesses. If you're using a landline in Nigeria, you'll need to dial the phone number, including the area code, if necessary. Unlike mobile phones, landlines don't require airtime to make calls, but you'll need to pay a monthly bill for the service.
Making International Calls
If you're making an international call to Nigeria, you'll need to follow a specific dialing pattern. First, dial your country's international access code, which is usually 00 or +, followed by Nigeria's country code, which is +234. Next, dial the area code, if necessary, and finally the phone number you want to reach. For instance, if you're calling a mobile phone in Lagos, Nigeria, from the United States, you'll need to dial 011 + 234 + 1 + phone number.
Calling Emergency Services
In case of an emergency in Nigeria, you can dial the emergency services number, which is 112. This number is toll-free, and it can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones and landlines. The emergency services include the police, fire service, and ambulance services.
Understanding Call Rates
The call rates in Nigeria vary depending on the service provider and the type of call you're making. Calls made within the same network are usually cheaper than calls made to other networks. Also, international calls are generally more expensive than local calls. It's important to check the call rates with your service provider before making calls to avoid unexpected charges.
Tips for Making Calls in Nigeria
Here are some tips to consider when making calls in Nigeria:
- Always have airtime on your mobile phone to avoid interruptions during calls.
- Check the call rates with your service provider before making calls to avoid unexpected charges.
- Always dial the area code, if necessary, when making calls within Nigeria.
- Keep your phone charged at all times to avoid running out of battery during important calls.
- Use a reliable service provider to avoid network interruptions during calls.
Conclusion
Making calls in Nigeria is an essential part of communication, and understanding the country's telecommunication system is crucial. This article has provided a comprehensive guide on how to call in Nigeria, including the country code, area codes, and other relevant information. By following the tips provided, you can make calls in Nigeria with ease and avoid unexpected charges.
FAQs
- What is the country code for Nigeria?
Ans: The country code for Nigeria is +234. - How many telecommunication service providers are in Nigeria?
Ans: Nigeria has four major telecommunication service providers, including MTN, Glo, Airtel, and 9Mobile. - Do I need to dial the area code when calling within Nigeria?
Ans: Yes, you need to dial the area code when calling within Nigeria, depending on the state where the call is being made. - What is the emergency services number in Nigeria?
Ans: The emergency services number in Nigeria is 112. - Are landlines still in use in Nigeria?
Ans: Yes, landlines are still in use in Nigeria, especially in government offices and businesses.
