How To Call Nigeria From The UK
Staying connected with friends, family and/or business partners in Nigeria from the UK is important; whether you're calling to check in, send love, or handle business.
But international calls can seem almost impossible, especially with codes, the distance, and the charges involved in it. If you’ve ever stared at a Nigerian number wondering what to dial first from the UK, you’re not alone, let’s help you.
This blog post breaks down how to call Nigeria from the UK, what codes you need, how to avoid high costs, and the most convenient ways to make those calls without a lot of stress.
Read also: How to Send Money Between the UK and Nigeria: What Works and What Doesn’t.
Step-by-Step: How to Dial a Nigerian Number from the UK.
To place a successful call from the UK to Nigeria, you can follow this 3-part format:
1. Dial the UK’s International Exit Code:
This tells your network that you're making an international call.
Example: 00
2. Add Nigeria’s Country/Dialing Code:
Every country has a unique dialing code and Nigeria’s is 234.
So far: 00234
3. Add the Nigerian Phone Number (minus the leading 0)
Nigerian phone numbers typically begin with a 0, like for 0803, 0812 or 0701, you must remove the first 0 when calling internationally (the UK in this case). So, if the number is 08012345678, you’ll dial: 002348012345678.
Common Mistakes People Make When Calling Nigeria From The UK.
- Dialing the number exactly as it was sent from Nigeria (with the leading 0).
- Forgetting the country code (234).
- Not checking if your mobile plan includes international calls (leading to unexpected charges).
- Using outdated landline codes, as many have changed or are no longer in use.
Read also: Pay by Bank on AfriChange: An Easier Way to Send Money from the UK.
Best Cost-Friendly Alternatives To Call Nigeria From the UK.
Calling directly using your mobile network works, but it can be expensive. Here are more cost-friendly alternatives for you to try:
1. International Calling Apps
Apps like these let you call Nigerian numbers (even landlines) at a fraction of the cost:
- Rebtel – no internet needed on the receiver’s side.
- Boss Revolution
- Talk360
- Dingtone
These apps offer per-minute rates that are cheaper than mobile networks, and they work with Nigerian networks like MTN, Airtel, and Glo.
2. VoIP Apps (Internet Calls)
If both you and the recipient have internet access, use:
- WhatsApp Voice or Video (for iPhone and Android users)
- FaceTime (for iPhone users)
- Telegram Calls
- Zoom or Google Meet (for business)
📝 Just remember: these options require stable internet on both sides.
3. Landline or Mobile Networks
If you still want to use a traditional phone line:
- Check if your provider (e.g., EE, Vodafone, O2) offers international bundles.
- Without a bundle, calls to Nigeria can cost £1 per minute or more.
- Some networks offer bolt-on international packages to reduce rates.
How Much Does It Cost to Call Nigeria From the UK?
| Method | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Direct Mobile Call | £0.99 – £1.50/min |
| Rebtel | £0.10 – £0.20/min |
| WhatsApp / FaceTime | Free (Wi-Fi/data required) |
| Boss Revolution | £0.12/min (with promos) |
📝 Prices vary by provider and whether the call is to a mobile or landline.
Wrapping Up…
Calling Nigeria from the UK doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or expensive. Once you understand the format as shown above in this post, you’ll find it’s easier and cheaper to stay in touch.
So whether you're checking on your family, or finalising a business deal this guide has you covered. Use it and share it with your loves ones home and abroad.