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:
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Your SIM card is lost
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Your phone is stolen
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Your SIM is damaged
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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:
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Your SIM was properly registered with your National Identification Number (NIN)
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Your biometric data (fingerprint or facial capture) exists in the operator’s database
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You can provide valid identification
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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:
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National ID card
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International passport
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Driver’s license
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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:
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Frequently dialed numbers
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Last recharge amount/date
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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:
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The SIM was lost
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You want to retrieve it without an affidavit
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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:
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Last call history
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Recharge history
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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:
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NIN is linked
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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:
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NIN verification passes
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SIM has consistent usage history
When an Affidavit May Still Be Required
You may still need an affidavit if:
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The SIM was not registered with NIN
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Registration details do not match your ID
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The SIM has been inactive for over 12 months
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Biometric verification fails
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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
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Always link your SIM to your NIN
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Use your real name during registration
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Keep a record of frequently dialed numbers
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Avoid registering SIMs through roadside agents
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Activate SIM lock on your phone
Common Mistakes Nigerians Make During SIM Replacement
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Visiting unauthorized agents
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Using someone else’s ID
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Providing inconsistent personal information
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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.
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