Losing a SIM card in Nigeria can be stressful, especially when the line is linked to banking apps, BVN, social media accounts, email recovery, and business communications. Traditionally, Nigerians were required to present a sworn affidavit and sometimes a police report to retrieve a lost SIM card. However, due to improvements in NCC SIM registration policies, biometric verification, and telecom operator self-service systems, it is now possible in many cases to retrieve a lost SIM card without an affidavit.
This guide explains how to retrieve a lost SIM card without affidavit in Nigeria, the conditions under which affidavits are waived, network-specific procedures (MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile), common pitfalls, and how to protect yourself during SIM replacement.
Understanding SIM Replacement in Nigeria
A SIM replacement (also called SIM swap) allows you to recover your mobile number when:
Your SIM card is lost
Your phone is stolen
Your SIM is damaged
You upgraded your device and need a micro/nano SIM
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) mandates that all SIM replacements must be verified against the original SIM registration details. This is why affidavits were previously required—to establish ownership. However, biometric verification has largely replaced that requirement.
Can You Retrieve a Lost SIM Card Without Affidavit in Nigeria?
Yes, you can, provided you meet certain verification criteria.
Most Nigerian telecom operators no longer require an affidavit if:
Your SIM was properly registered with your National Identification Number (NIN)
Your biometric data (fingerprint or facial capture) exists in the operator’s database
You can provide valid identification
You pass the network’s security verification questions
If any of these are missing, the operator may still request an affidavit as a fallback.
Key Requirements for SIM Retrieval Without Affidavit
Before visiting a service center, ensure you have the following:
1. National Identification Number (NIN)
Your SIM must be linked to your NIN. This is now the primary identity verification method.
2. Valid Means of Identification
Accepted IDs include:
National ID card
International passport
Driver’s license
Voter’s card (secondary option)
3. Biometric Verification
Most telcos will scan your fingerprint to confirm ownership.
4. SIM Ownership Details
You may be asked to confirm:
Frequently dialed numbers
Last recharge amount/date
Registered name and date of birth
Step-by-Step: How to Retrieve a Lost SIM Card Without Affidavit in Nigeria
Step 1: Block the Lost SIM Immediately
Call your network’s customer care or visit a service center to block the SIM. This prevents fraud and unauthorized access.
Step 2: Visit the Nearest Network Service Center
You must visit an official service center. Third-party agents cannot process affidavit-free SIM replacements.
Step 3: Request SIM Replacement (No Affidavit)
Inform the customer service representative that:
The SIM was lost
You want to retrieve it without an affidavit
Your line is NIN-linked
Step 4: Complete Biometric Verification
Your fingerprint will be scanned and matched against the registration database.
Step 5: Answer Security Questions
You may be asked about:
Last call history
Recharge history
SIM activation period
Step 6: Receive Your Replacement SIM
If verification is successful, you will receive a new SIM with the same number. Activation typically occurs within minutes to 24 hours.
Network-Specific SIM Retrieval Procedures in Nigeria
MTN Nigeria SIM Replacement Without Affidavit
MTN allows affidavit-free SIM replacement if:
NIN is linked
Biometric verification is successful
Processing time: 10 minutes to 24 hours
Cost: ₦500–₦1,000 (varies by location)
Airtel Nigeria SIM Retrieval Without Affidavit
Airtel uses biometric verification and call history validation.
Note: Airtel may request an affidavit if biometric data is incomplete.
Glo SIM Replacement Without Affidavit
Glo supports NIN-based SIM replacement but is stricter with verification questions.
9mobile SIM Retrieval Without Affidavit
9mobile allows affidavit-free SIM retrieval if:
NIN verification passes
SIM has consistent usage history
When an Affidavit May Still Be Required
You may still need an affidavit if:
The SIM was not registered with NIN
Registration details do not match your ID
The SIM has been inactive for over 12 months
Biometric verification fails
The SIM was registered under another person’s name
How Long Does SIM Retrieval Take in Nigeria?
| Scenario | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Biometric verification successful | 10 minutes – 24 hours |
| Network congestion | Up to 48 hours |
| Manual review required | 2–5 working days |
Cost of Retrieving a Lost SIM Card Without Affidavit
The NCC does not fix SIM replacement fees. Costs depend on the operator and service center.
Typical cost range: ₦500 – ₦1,500
Affidavit-free replacement is generally cheaper.
Important Tips to Avoid Future SIM Loss Issues
Always link your SIM to your NIN
Use your real name during registration
Keep a record of frequently dialed numbers
Avoid registering SIMs through roadside agents
Activate SIM lock on your phone
Common Mistakes Nigerians Make During SIM Replacement
Visiting unauthorized agents
Using someone else’s ID
Providing inconsistent personal information
Waiting too long before blocking the SIM
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I retrieve my lost SIM card without affidavit in Nigeria?
Yes, if your SIM is NIN-linked and biometric verification is successful.
2. Is affidavit compulsory for SIM replacement in Nigeria?
No, affidavits are only required when biometric or identity verification fails.
3. Can I retrieve my SIM online?
No. Physical presence at a service center is mandatory.
4. How much does SIM replacement cost in Nigeria?
Between ₦500 and ₦1,500 depending on the network.
5. Can someone else retrieve my SIM for me?
No. SIM replacement requires biometric verification of the owner.
6. What if my SIM was registered under another person’s name?
You may need an affidavit or re-registration.
7. How long does SIM activation take after replacement?
Usually within minutes, but sometimes up to 24 hours.
8. Can I retrieve a SIM that has been inactive for years?
It depends on the network’s retention policy.
9. Does SIM replacement affect my contacts?
Contacts stored on the SIM will be lost unless backed up.
10. Is police report required for lost SIM?
No, unless there is a fraud investigation.
11. Can I retrieve a stolen SIM?
Yes, follow the same procedure after blocking it.
12. What if biometric verification fails?
You may be required to present an affidavit.
Conclusion
Retrieving a lost SIM card without an affidavit in Nigeria is no longer as complicated as it once was. With the introduction of mandatory NIN linkage, improved biometric verification systems, and stricter NCC regulations, most telecom operators now prioritize identity-based verification over court affidavits. As long as your SIM was properly registered in your real name and linked to your NIN, you can recover your number quickly by visiting an authorized service center and completing the required biometric and security checks.
The key to a smooth SIM retrieval process is preparation. Blocking the lost SIM immediately, presenting a valid means of identification, and accurately answering verification questions significantly increase your chances of same-day replacement. While affidavits are still required in exceptional cases—such as mismatched registration details or failed biometric verification—they are no longer the default requirement for most users.
Ultimately, protecting your mobile number starts long before it is lost. Keeping your SIM registration details accurate, avoiding unauthorized agents, and ensuring your NIN is properly linked will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. By following the steps outlined in this guide, Nigerians can confidently retrieve a lost SIM card without affidavit and regain full access to their communications, banking services, and digital accounts with minimal delay.
ADENIYI is a freelance writer for naijatipsland.com, blogger, social commentator, and I.T personnel. Â He has written many articles on Science and Technology, Education, Sports, Politics, Religion, Relationships, Entertainment, Health and more. When he is not busy researching online, he probably reads some good books, all in the quest for knowledge and information.
