Top 3 Cheap Data Codes in Nigeria

If you've been buying mobile data the old way (the generic *312# or standard bundles), you might be paying more than necessary. In 2025 networks still sell many hidden/targeted bundles and USSD shortcuts that give much better value for some subscribers. Below I’ve researched the most consistently reported, widely used and useful cheap data codes for Nigeria this year — how they work, who can access them, and practical tips to get the best price-per-GB without falling for expired promos.

Quick note: Telecom offers change frequently and eligibility varies by SIM (sometimes by age of the SIM, top-up history, or account type). I’ve cited official pages and recent checks where available and flagged community-reported codes when networks don’t publish them. Always confirm by dialing the code on your line.

Eligibility and Availability of Cheap Data Code Offers

Before we proceed, it's important to understand that many cheap data bundles are available only to eligible SIMs (old SIMs, high-spend customers, or those migrated to specific tariff plans). That’s why two people on the same network can see different bundles when they dial the same code.

• Eligibility varies: Many cheap codes show discounted bundles only to eligible lines — often older SIMs or customers who recharge regularly. Don’t be alarmed if a code shows nothing for your line.

• Promos come and go: Some “hidden” codes are community-discovered promos. If a code worked last week, it might be gone today. Always check official channels when in doubt.

• Avoid scams: Do not share PINs, OTPs, or accept unsolicited SMS asking you to dial odd codes that require personal data. Stick to official USSD, the operator’s app, or reputable vendors.

• Confirm validity: Check the validity (1 day / 2 days / 7 days / 30 days) before buying — a cheap daily 1GB is great short-term but poor for steady monthly use.

The Top 3 Cheap Data Codes for 2025 (and how to use them)

1) MTN — *121#

Available to MTN users, *121# opens MTN4ME and Smart Data menus where many subscribers consistently find some of the lowest per-GB rates available to their line — including small daily bundles and combo offers that aren’t obvious on the main *312# menu. With this code, you can get 2GB for only 400 Naira and 3GB for only 500 Naira.

How to use it:

1. Dial *121# on your MTN line.

2. Choose the option for Smart Data (usually at menu number 4 , but note that menu numbers change occasionally).

3. Browse the list — look for small daily/2-day bundles (they can be the best deals for short-term use).

What to expect:

• Not every SIM will see the same menu. Offers shown are often personalized.

• These menus contain the cheapest available data options for your SIM, but they’re not permanent — they can disappear or be replaced by new promos.

Who should use it: Anyone on MTN who wants to check for targeted low-cost bundles (especially short-validity options).

2) MTN — *312*888#

Also available to MTN users, *312*888# unlocks a data purchase gateway that many users and data-tracking sites report as highly competitive data bundle. The code gives you 1GB + 500MB of data, valid for 30 days. This implies that if your budget is to spend 1,000 Naira on data purchase, you will be getting a total of 7.5GB (5GB + 2.5GB) using this code. In the same vein, for a budget of 3,000 Naira this code gets you 22.5GB of data, as against the usual 6.75GB gotten when you purchase data using *312#.

How to use it:

1. Dial *312*888# on your MTN SIM card and follow the on-screen prompt.

What to expect:

• At 1.5GB for only 200 Naira, this offer is undoubtly the cheapest data offer in the market, however, eligibility and availability is patchy and depends on MTN’s targeting.

Who should use it: MTN users who want to find the absolute cheapest short-term data and who don’t mind dialing the code multiple times in order to purchase bigger data volumes.

3) MTN and Airtel — *312*1*1#

Available to MTN and Airtel users, this code reveals some of the cheapest data offers for specific use cases. Despite the price revision done by Airtle in early 2025, they still offer some targeted bundles that provides good value. Because telecom companies often changes menu structure, checking *312*1*1# is the fastest way to find the best available bundles for your SIM card.

How to use it:

1. Dial *312*1*1# and pick the data options that fits your budget.

What to expect:

• Telecom companies such as MTN and Airtel sometimes increases or adjusts prices across its entire portfolio; that means the absolute cheapest bundles may shift. Still, targeted combos (data + minutes) can give better overall value for users who also need voice.

Who should use it: MTN and Airtel subscribers who want reliable monthly/weekly value or the occasional streaming bundle that stretches data for specific apps.

Practical tips to get the cheapest data bundles consistently

1. Try multiple menus: Always dial/check various codes — one might show better value.

2. Top up regularly: Some targeted offers are shown to users with steady recharge histories.

3. Use apps when USSD fails: MyAirtel and MTN apps sometimes show bundles not shown on USSD, and they are easier to browse.

4. Check eligibility after SIM migration: Migrating tariff plans or moving to an “XtraValue” or other plan can open or close offers.

5. Record good finds: If you get a particularly good code for your SIM, note it (codes can disappear; you’ll want to try immediately when it shows).

Final thoughts

There is no single universal “cheapest” code that works for every line in Nigeria — instead, there are menus and shortcuts that surface better value for eligible subscribers. In 2025 the top three practical cheap data codes have been discussed above. Try them to confirm availability, eligibility and charges before purchase, and keep an eye on your operator’s official pages for tariff changes.