5 WAYS TO LINK NIN TO STERLING BANK ACCOUNT

Are you a Sterling Bank account holder, then you would need to link NIN to Sterling Bank Account. CBN has mandated customers to update their account information with both the Bank Verification Number (BVN) and the National Identification Number (NIN) by March 1, 2024 in order to keep their account active.

LINK NIN TO STERLING BANK ACCOUNT

The Central Bank of Nigeria has instructed all bank customers to link their National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number, BVN to their bank account (s). The apex bank had in a circular on December 1st 2023, directed that banks should place restrictions on all Tier 1 bank accounts without BVN.

Tier 1 accounts are accounts that can be opened with a valid identity or proof of address. While some banks indicated February 29, 2024, as the deadline, some banks were silent about any deadline.

The National Identification Number (NIN) consists of 11 non-intelligible numbers randomly chosen and assigned to an individual after completing enrollment into the National Identity Database (NIDB).

Bank Verification Number (BVN)

With the increasing incidents of compromise on conventional security systems (password and PIN), there is a high demand for greater security on access to sensitive or personal information in the Banking system.

The BVN gives each Bank customer a unique identity across the Nigerian Banking industry that can be used for easy identification and verification at Point of Banking operations.

Biometrics refers to identification of an individual based on physiological attributes- fingerprint, voice, facial features etc. To address existing challenges with identity management, the Central Bank of Nigeria, in collaboration with all Nigerian banks launched a centralized biometric identification system tagged Bank Verification Number (BVN).

National Identification Number (NIN)

The National Identification Number (NIN) is mandated for all Nigerian citizens and legal residents in the territory of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The number consists of 11 non-intelligible numbers as the main unique component of the National ID Card issued on completion of enrollment into the Nigerian National Identity Database (NIDB). The database was designed as key to maintaining security and tied to basic public services for better management and efficiency in the near future.

HOW DO I LINK NIN TO STERLING BANK ACCOUNT

Are you a Sterling Bank account holder, then you would need to link NIN to Sterling Bank account. CBN has mandated customers to update their account information with both the Bank Verification Number (BVN) and the National Identification Number (NIN) by March 1, 2024 in order to keep their account active.

The notification further stated that failure to comply with this mandatory security requirement will result in restrictions whereby a customer can’t withdraw or receive funds from his or her bank account.

This bank account NIN linking process will help in verifying and authenticating customers’ identities, enhancing the overall security of banking operations. If you are unsure about how to link your NIN to your Sterling Bank account, don’t worry! I have got you covered with this step-by-step guide on how to Link Your NIN to Sterling Bank Account in Nigeria.

Why Is It Important to Link NIN to Sterling Bank Account

• The Nigerian government requires us to link  NIN to Sterling Bank accounts to streamline identity verification processes and combat fraudulent activities.
• By associating your NIN and BVN with your Sterling Bank account, the bank can verify your identity more effectively, adding an extra layer of security to your financial transactions.Once your NIN and BVN is linked to your Sterling Bank account, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to banking services without any compliance-related interruptions.

How to Link NIN to Sterling Bank Account

Sterling Bank has simplified the process to link NIN to Sterling Bank account by providing multiple channels for this essential task, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and enhancing the security of your financial transactions. You can choose the most convenient option from the following:

Via USSD Code

The Sterling Bank USSD code has provided a simple and convenient way to link your NIN to Sterling Bank account directly from your mobile phone. You don’t need internet access or a smartphone to utilize this method. Here’s how to do it:

• Dial Dial *822# on your phone’s keypad. from your registered phone number linked to your Sterling Bank account.
•  Follow the on-screen prompts and enter your NIN and BVN when requested.
•  Confirm your details and submit.
•  You will receive a confirmation message indicating that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Sterling Bank account.

Via Sterling Bank  Mobile App

With the Sterling Bank mobile app, you can link your NIN to Sterling Bank account online. You’ll need to install their Sterling Bank MOBILE APP  from Play store or App store. Ensure you have your Sterling Bank account number, NIN, and BVN handy. Here’s how to proceed:

• Download and install the Sterling Bank mobile app from your app store.
• Log in to the app using your credentials.
• Navigate to the settings or profile section of the app.
• Look for an option within the settings menu that allows you to link your NIN to your account.
• Select the NIN linking option and enter your National Identification Number (NIN) when prompted.
• After entering your NIN, review the information to ensure accuracy, and then submit the form.
• You will receive a confirmation message indicating that your NIN has been successfully linked to your Sterling Bank account.

With the following step, you can conveniently link your National Identification Number (NIN) to your Sterling Bank account using the Sterling Bank Mobile App. If you encounter any difficulties during the process, you can reach out to Sterling Bank’s customer support for assistance.

Via Sterling Bank Website

The Sterling Bank website offers an easy and secure online platform to link your NIN to your Sterling Bank account. You’ll need internet access and a device capable of browsing the web. Ensure you have your Sterling Bank account number, NIN, and BVN ready. Here’s how to proceed:

• Visit the Sterling Bank website: https://sterling.ng/
• Log in to your Internet banking account using your username and password.
• Look for an option that allows you to manage your account settings. Within the account settings, locate the option to link your NIN to your Sterling Bank account. This option might be labeled as “Update Personal Information,” “Link NIN,” or similar.
• Enter your Sterling Bank account number, NIN, and BVN in the provided fields.
• Click on the “Submit” button and wait for the verification process to complete.
• Upon successful verification, you will receive a confirmation message confirming the linkage of your NIN to your Sterling Bank account.

With the following step, you can conveniently link your National Identification Number (NIN) to your Sterling Bank account using the Sterling Bank website. If you encounter any difficulties during the process, you can reach out to Sterling Bank’s customer support for assistance.https://sterling.ng/support/contact-us/

 Via Sterling Bank Branch

If you prefer face-to-face assistance or do not have access to the internet, you can visit the nearest Sterling Bank branch. The bank’s friendly staff will guide you through the process of linking NIN to bank account.

• Locate the nearest Sterling Bank branch to your location.
• Bring along your valid means of identification (e.g., International Passport, Driver’s License, or Voter’s Card), your NIN, and your Sterling Bank account details.
• Once at the branch, approach a customer service representative and inform them that you want to link your NIN to your account.
• Provide the necessary documents and information when requested.
• The customer service representative will guide you through the process, which may involve filling out a form or providing your details for verification.
• Once the linking process is completed, you should receive confirmation either through a printed receipt or verbally from the representative.

Via Sterling Bank ATM Gallery

• Locate any Sterling Bank ATM near you.
• Insert your Sterling Bank debit card into the ATM and input your PIN.
• Navigate through the menu options to find the NIN /BVN linking option. This may vary depending on the ATM model.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to enter your NIN / BVN when prompted.
• Confirm the linkage, and upon completion, you should receive a confirmation message on the ATM screen.
• Keep the transaction receipt for your records.

Retrieve your BVN on your phone

1. Dial *565*0# on the phone number linked to your Sterling Bank account.
2. Follow the prompts on the screen to select the option for BVN.
3. Enter your Sterling Bank account number when prompted.
4. Your BVN will be displayed on the screen.

Retrieve your NIN on your phone

Forgotten your NIN? Don’t remember where you kept your NIN slip? Not to worry, NIMC’s USSD service enables you to retrieve your NIN conveniently using your mobile phone.

To use this service, simply go through the following steps:

• On your phone’s dialer, dial *346#.
• Select the option for NIN retrieval. The exact wording may vary, but it will typically be labeled clearly.
• You may be prompted to enter personal information such as your first name, last name, and other details to verify your identity.
• After entering your details, your NIN will be displayed on the screen or sent to your phone via SMS.
• Note that using this service attracts a N20 (tweny naira) fee only (deducted from your phone credit balance).

How to Retrieve NIN Without Phone Number on the NIMC Portal

Here is how to retrieve your NIN without your phone number on the NIMC portal:

• Go to the NIMC NIN retrieval portal:http://www.nimc.gov.ng.
• Click on “NIN Retrieval” on the NIMC homepage.
• Choose the “Forgot Mobile Number?”
• Input your First Name and Last Name,
• Enter your registered email
• You can use your date of birth if the email is forgotten.
• Finalize the process by clicking “Submit”;
• You’ll receive your NIN via email upon successful verification.

Important Tips:

• Ensure Accuracy: When linking your BVN and NIN, double-check that all numbers entered are correct to avoid any discrepancies.
• Keep Records: After completing the linking process, keep a record of the confirmation for future reference.
• Protect Your Information: Always keep your BVN and NIN confidential to prevent potential misuse.

Conclusion

Linking your NIN/BVN to your Sterling Bank account is a simple process that ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and enhances the security of your financial transactions. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can seamlessly link NIN to Sterling Bank account and continue enjoying the bank’s services without interruption. If you encounter any difficulties during the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sterling Bank’s customer support for assistance.

I have shown you how to link NIN to Sterling Bank account online using the USSD code, the Sterling Bank ATM Gallery and the Sterling Bank mobile app. I have also shown you how to link your NIN to your Sterling Bank account offline by visiting any Sterling Bank branch or ATM. Stay compliant, stay secure, and enjoy hassle-free banking with Sterling Bank!

Hopefully, I believe that this post will be useful to you. Thanks for reading!