9jah team
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Seeded question. The 9jah team wrote this question and its answer on 2 September 2026 to start the site. The answer was checked on that date, but prices and rules in Nigeria change, so add what you know or correct it below.
First bank account. What is a BVN, where do I get it, and what documents does the bank want?
The Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a single ID for all your bank accounts. You enrol once at any bank branch with a valid ID (NIN slip, passport, voter card or driver's licence). It is free and the number arrives by SMS in about a day or two.
Since 2024 the CBN requires both a BVN and a NIN on every account, so bring both. For a basic (tier 1) account many banks and fintechs let you open on the app with a phone number, BVN and NIN, but limits on balance and transfers apply. For a full account you add a passport photo, a utility bill or other proof of address, and sometimes a signature card at the branch.
If a bank tells you BVN enrolment costs money, go to another branch; the CBN says it is free.
Checked by the 9jah team on 2 September 2026. Corrections welcome.
