For Nigerians living in the UK, staying connected with family and loved ones back home is essential. Making international calls to Nigeria from the UK may seem intimidating at first, but it's relatively straightforward once you know the process. In this guide, we'll provide you with easy-to-follow steps on how to call Nigeria from the UK, helping you stay in touch with your dear ones.
Contents
- Understanding the Basics of International Calling
- How do I Make International Calls to Nigeria?
- How Much Does It Cost?
- Choosing the Best Option
- Cheapest Way to Call Nigeria
- Tips for Staying Connected Without Breaking the Bank
- Conclusion
- Best ways to send money to or from the UK
Understanding the Basics of International Calling
To place an international call, one must be familiar with a few essential codes:
Country Code: Every country has a specific code. For Nigeria, it is +234.
Area/City Code: This code is specific to the region within Nigeria. For instance, Lagos has the code 1.
Local Number: The actual phone number you're dialing.
To call Nigeria, the formula is:
UK exit code + Nigeria's country code + Area/City Code + Local Number.
How do I Make International Calls to Nigeria?
While the prospect of making international calls to Nigeria from the UK may initially appear daunting, the process is surprisingly straightforward. To break it down:
Step 1: Dial the UK’s international exit code, which is 00.
Step 2: Dial Nigeria's country code, +234.
Step 3: Dial the area/city code – omitting the initial zero if there is one.
Step 4: Dial the local Nigerian phone number.
For example, to call a Lagos landline from the UK, you would dial: 00-234-1-XXXXXXX.
How Much Does It Cost?
There is a misconception that international calls cost a lot of money. This is true but to some extent. Costs vary depending on several factors:
- Your Service Provider: Different telecom providers have different rates for international calls.
- Landline vs. Mobile: Generally, calling a landline is cheaper than calling a mobile phone.
- Time of Day: Some providers offer reduced rates during off-peak hours..
Always consult with your service provider for exact rates to avoid unexpected charges.
Pay-as-you-go vs. Calling Plans
Staying connected with loved ones in Nigeria is priceless, but understanding the costs associated with international calls ensures you get the best value for your money.
- Pay-as-you-go Rates.
For those who like the flexibility of paying for what they use, there are Pay-as-you-go options available. These allow you to recharge your account with a specific amount and then deduct charges based on the rates for calls to Nigeria. Here's a quick breakdown of rates and minutes you can expect:
| Destination | Price | £10 Total |
|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | 9.8p/min | 102 min |
| Nigeria Cellular | 9.8p/min | 102 min |
| Nigeria Cellular -Globacom | 9.8p/min | 102 min |
| Nigeria Cellular-MTN | 9.8p/min | 102 min |
| Nigeria Cellular-Zain | 9.8p/min | 102 min |
| Nigeria Lagos Special Services | 9.8p/min | 102 min |
So, with a £10 recharge, you could potentially speak for up to 102 minutes based on the rates provided.
- Calling Plans.
For individuals who call Nigeria frequently and wish for a more consistent billing method, there are calling plans available. One such plan offers unlimited calls for a set price. For just £9.99, you can enjoy unlimited calls to Nigeria, valid for 30 days. This plan can be especially cost-effective if you anticipate making long or frequent calls within that month.
Choosing the Best Option
When deciding between Pay-as-you-go and calling plans, consider your calling patterns. If you make irregular or short calls, Pay-as-you-go might be best. However, if you spend several hours a month on calls, an unlimited plan could offer better value.
Cheapest Way to Call Nigeria
For those who frequently call Nigeria, finding the most cost-effective method is paramount. Here are some suggestions:
- Phone Cards: Purchasing international calling cards can offer significant savings. These are available in various denominations and provide a set amount of minutes for your calls.
- VoIP Services: Platforms like Skype, Zoom, or WhatsApp allow users to make calls over the internet, often at a reduced rate or even free if both parties have the app.
- Special Packages: Some UK telecom providers offer packages specifically tailored for international calls. Check if there are packages for calls to Nigeria. Such as the ones from Boss Revolution.
Tips for Staying Connected Without Breaking the Bank
While you want to stay in touch with your loved ones back home, the cost of international calls can sometimes get heavy on the pocket. You can consider the following tips to keep it light and healthy financially for yourself and also keep in touch with your family back home in Nigeria.
- Plan Ahead: If possible, schedule your calls during off-peak hours when rates might be lower.
- Limit Calls: As much as you'd like to talk daily, sometimes it's more economical to limit voice calls and supplement with texts or emails.
- Use Free Wi-Fi: If using VoIP services, free Wi-Fi zones can help save on data costs.
Conclusion
Staying in touch with family and friends in Nigeria from the UK is more than just a lifeline; it's a testament to the strength of relationships that transcend borders. While international calls can be costly, with a bit of planning and the right resources, it’s entirely possible to maintain these vital connections without incurring hefty phone bills. With this guide, you are now equipped to explore the complexities of calling Nigeria, ensuring that the voices of your loved ones are never too far away.
Best ways to send money to or from the UK
Small World Money Transfer App provides low-cost international transfers. Its exchange rates are competitive, making transfers between many countries simple. This is a well-known platform for sending money to friends and relatives in the UK and many other countries. Download the app now and sign up!
