Ecobank USSD Codes in 2025: How to Use the Short Code
In an era where mobile banking is essential, Ecobank offers an easy-to-use USSD service so customers can bank without internet access. This guide explains how to register, the main functions available via Ecobank’s short code, step-by-step examples and best security practices for 2025.
What is the Ecobank USSD Code?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a short code protocol that lets you send commands from your mobile phone to a bank's service. You don't need data — just a SIM registered with your bank and the code. For Ecobank in Nigeria, the commonly used USSD short code is:
*326#
How to Register & Activate Ecobank USSD
- From the mobile number registered to your Ecobank account, dial *326#.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to attach/activate the service. You may be prompted to set or enter a 6-digit PIN.
- If you forget your PIN, use Ecobank’s official channels (mobile app or branch) to reset it.
Main USSD Functions & Codes (Typical Menu)
The menu layout may vary slightly by country or update. Common options include:
| Function | USSD / Code Format | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Access USSD menu | *326# | Start your Ecobank USSD session |
| Check balance | *326*0# | View your account balance |
| Transfer to Ecobank | *326*1*amount*account_number# | Send money to another Ecobank account |
| Transfer to other banks | *326*2*amount*account_number# | Send money to non-Ecobank accounts |
| Buy airtime (self) | *326*amount# | Recharge your phone |
| Buy airtime (others) | *326*amount*phone_number# | Recharge someone else’s phone |
| BVN / Check BVN | *326*7# | Access your Bank Verification Number (BVN) |
| Block account / stop debit | *326*911# | Temporarily halt debits or block your account (where supported) |
| Activate USSD | *326*00# | Initialize or enable USSD services |
How to Use the USSD Code — Step-by-Step Example
Example: Sending money to another Ecobank account
- Dial
*326#. - From the menu choose Transfer.
- Select Ecobank account.
- Enter the recipient's account number and the amount.
- Enter your 6-digit PIN to confirm.
- You will receive a confirmation message when the transaction completes.
Advantages of Using Ecobank USSD
- No internet needed: Works on basic feature phones.
- Speed: Transactions are usually instant.
- 24/7 availability: Bank outside of branch hours.
- Wide reach: Useful across regions with limited data coverage.
- Security: Transactions are protected by a personal PIN.
Best Practices & Security Tips
- Use the registered SIM
- Only dial the USSD code from the mobile number registered with your bank.
- Keep your PIN private
- Never share your USSD PIN. Bank staff will never ask for it.
- Check network & service availability
- If the code doesn't respond, verify your network signal and that the service is supported in your country.
- Monitor charges
- Confirm any session or transaction charges (where applicable) using official Ecobank notices.
Conclusion
Ecobank's *326# USSD service remains an essential, fast and accessible way to manage banking tasks without internet access in 2025.
Use the steps and best practices above to register, transact and keep your account secure.