MTN Customer Care Number: A Complete, Country-by-Country Guide

Why the right MTN customer care number matters

MTN Group serves over 290 million subscribers across 19 markets in Africa and the Middle East (2023), and customer care numbers differ by country. Using the correct number ensures you reach the right call center with the tools to verify your account, resolve service issues, and action requests like SIM swaps, PUK retrieval, or tariff changes quickly. Most MTN call centers operate 24/7 and calls are usually free from an MTN SIM, while calls from other networks or from abroad typically attract standard carrier or international rates.

Below is a practical, verified quick-reference for key MTN markets, followed by guidance on when to call, what to prepare for faster resolution, and alternatives to calling such as USSD, apps, and walk‑in service centers. Where possible, official websites and switchboard numbers are included so you can double-check details for your specific city or account type.

Quick reference: MTN customer care numbers by country

Use the in-network short code when calling from an MTN SIM; use the “other networks” or “international” number when calling from a different carrier or from outside the country. Most lines are available 24/7 for consumer support unless otherwise noted.

• Nigeria (MTN Nigeria)
  — From an MTN line: 180 (toll-free)
  — From other networks: 0803 100 0180
  — From abroad: +234 803 100 0180
  — Website: mtn.ng
  — Notes: Common self-service USSDs include *123# (account menu), *131# (data), *556# (balance), *555*PIN# (recharge), *785# (NIN linking).
• South Africa (MTN SA)
  — From an MTN line: 135 (free)
  — From other networks: 083 135
  — From abroad: +27 83 135
  — Website: mtn.co.za
  — Notes: Use *135# for the self-service menu; the MTN App offers SIM management, bundles, and billing.
• Ghana (MTN Ghana)
  — From an MTN line: 100 (free)
  — From other networks: 0244 300 000
  — From abroad: +233 244 300 000
  — Website: mtn.com.gh
  — Notes: MoMo support is also via 100; key USSDs include *170# (Mobile Money) and *124# (balance).
• Uganda (MTN Uganda)
  — From an MTN line: 100
  — Switchboard (from other networks/abroad): +256 312 120 000 (ask to be routed to Customer Care)
  — Website: mtn.co.ug
  — Notes: The MyMTN app and online help pages cover SIM services, bundles, and payments.

Tip: If a care line is busy, try the country’s self-service USSD or app for quick actions like balance checks, bundle activation, or PUK retrieval. For corporate, enterprise, or IoT support, use the business support contacts listed on each country’s website rather than the consumer help line.

When to call and what to prepare

Call MTN customer care for SIM registration or updates, SIM swap/replace requests, PUK codes, tariff or bundle issues, roaming activation, value-added services (VAS) cancellation, billing disputes, blocked line resolution, or to report network coverage problems. In many markets, SIM registration and national ID verification are legally enforced; agents may require specific information before they can access or change your account.

• Identity and account verification: Have your phone number (MSISDN), full name as registered, a valid ID (e.g., National ID, passport), and date of birth. In Nigeria, keep your NIN handy for verification or updates; in Ghana, be ready with your Ghana Card; in South Africa, your RSA ID; in Uganda, your NIN/NIRA details.
• Recent activity details: Last recharge amount and date, last numbers called, or last bundle purchased. This helps agents confirm ownership—especially for SIM swaps or security-sensitive changes.
• SIM and device info: The SIM serial number (printed on the SIM card carrier), your device’s IMEI (dial *#06#), and any error messages received. For roaming issues, note your destination network and the date/time the problem occurs.
• Billing and payments: Keep transaction references for airtime/data purchases (voucher PINs, MoMo transaction IDs, bank USSD or app receipts). For disputed charges, write down timestamps and short codes involved.

Best times to call are typically weekday mornings or late evenings to avoid peak traffic. Calls from an MTN line to the customer care short code are generally free; calls from other networks or from abroad are billed by your originating carrier. For sensitive changes (e.g., SIM swap), agents may require you to visit a service center with original ID to complete KYC steps in line with local regulation.

Alternatives to calling: digital channels and in‑person help

Self-service is often the fastest route for common tasks. Use the MyMTN app (country-specific) to check balances, buy bundles, manage subscriptions, and view PUK codes. USSD menus work on any device without data: for example, Nigeria’s *123# and *131#, South Africa’s *135#, and Ghana’s *170# (for Mobile Money). Each country’s website also offers help articles, live chat (where available), and plan details:

Websites: Nigeria — mtn.ng/help; South Africa — mtn.co.za (Support); Ghana — mtn.com.gh/help; Uganda — mtn.co.ug/support. For social care, use only verified profiles (look for the checkmark and official handle on X/Facebook). Avoid sharing full ID numbers or SIM serials in public comments; use private messages or phone support for account-specific data.

For SIM registration, SIM swaps, or device financing queries that require physical verification, walk-in centers provide face-to-face assistance. Bring your original government-issued ID, the affected SIM (if available), and any proof of purchase for devices or SIMs. Service center hours vary by city, but most open Monday–Saturday during business hours; some flagship stores open on Sundays in large malls.

Walk‑in service centers (selected addresses)

Nigeria (MTN Nigeria): MTN Plaza, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos; additional service centers are listed on mtn.ng under “Find a Store.” South Africa (MTN SA): MTN Head Office & Innovation Centre, 216 14th Avenue, Fairland, Johannesburg, 2195; retail service points are widely available in major malls—check mtn.co.za for a store locator. Ghana (MTN Ghana): MTN House, Independence Avenue, Ridge, Accra; regional service centers are published on mtn.com.gh with opening hours and service scopes (e.g., SIM registration, MoMo support).

Uganda (MTN Uganda): MTN Towers, Plot 22 Hannington Road, Kampala; regional service centers appear on mtn.co.ug with maps and contact details. Before visiting any center, confirm hours and required documents online. For lost or stolen SIMs, report immediately via the care number to block services and protect Mobile Money; then proceed in person for a SIM replacement with your original ID.

Practical troubleshooting before you call

Run a few quick checks to resolve common issues faster: power cycle your device; reseat the SIM; check APN settings from the official website; try the SIM in a second phone to isolate device vs. network problems; and verify you have an active bundle and sufficient balance. For data throttling or out‑of‑bundle charges, consult the app or USSD to confirm your current tariff and bundle status.

If the issue persists, note the exact time, location (GPS or landmark), signal indicator (e.g., 4G/3G/No Service), and any error codes. Provide these to the agent—granular details help network teams open precise trouble tickets and speed up resolution. For billing disputes, keep screenshots or transaction IDs; many cases are resolved faster when you provide concrete timestamps and references during the first call.