MTN 406# Menu Options in Nigeria – Full USSD Code List

If you use MTN in Nigeria, chances are you’ve heard someone say, “Just dial 406#.”
But what exactly does MTN 406# do? What menu options appear? And is it still relevant in 2025?

This guide answers all those questions clearly and honestly. No myths. No recycled rumors. Just real information you can rely on.

What Is the MTN 406# USSD Code?

MTN 406# is a service-access USSD code that MTN Nigeria has historically used to display special promotional offers, mostly around bonus airtime, discounted recharge rewards, or personalized deals.

It does not perform a single fixed function like checking balance or buying data. Instead, it opens a dynamic menu that changes based on:

• Your MTN tariff plan
• Your usage history
• Ongoing MTN promotions
• Network eligibility rules

That’s why two MTN users can dial 406# and see different options.

This type of personalization is standard practice in modern telecom networks.

Is MTN 406# Still Active in Nigeria?

Yes — but with limitations.

MTN 406# is not guaranteed to work for every subscriber at all times. The code is promotion-dependent, meaning:

• Some users see offers
• Some users see “Not eligible”
• Some users see no menu at all

This behavior aligns with MTN’s promotional USSD structure and Nigeria’s telecom regulations.

Importantly, 406# is not a universal service code like *310# or *312#.

Why MTN Uses Codes Like 406#

Telecom operators use short USSD promotional codes to:

• Run targeted bonus campaigns
• Test new reward systems
• Offer loyalty incentives
• Reduce mass abuse of bonus plans

According to Nigerian Communications Commission, promotional USSD services must be non-misleading, opt-in, and clearly disclosed to users.

This is why MTN rotates or disables such codes frequently.

MTN 406# Menu Options – What You May See

⚠️ Important: These options do not appear permanently. They depend on MTN’s current promotions and your eligibility.

1. Bonus Airtime on Recharge

This is the most common option.

You may see offers like:

• Recharge ₦100 → Get ₦200 value
• Recharge ₦500 → Get bonus airtime for calls

Bonus airtime usually:

• Works for on-net calls
• Has an expiry period
• Cannot be transferred

2. Discounted Recharge Deals

Some users receive discounted top-up offers, where part of the recharge value returns as a bonus.

These offers aim to encourage frequent recharges.

3. Loyalty or Comeback Offers

MTN sometimes targets:

• Low-usage lines
• Dormant SIMs
• Recently reactivated numbers

These offers help MTN retain subscribers.

4. Promotional Data Bundles (Occasional)

Although rare, some versions of the 406# menu include temporary data offers, usually:

• Small-sized bundles
• Short validity
• Bonus-only usage

5. “You Are Not Eligible” Message

This message simply means:

• No active promotion applies to your line
• Your tariff plan doesn’t qualify
• The promotion has ended

It does not mean your SIM has a problem.

What MTN 406# Does Not Do

Let’s clear common confusion.

MTN 406# does NOT:

• Check airtime balance
• Buy standard data plans
• Transfer airtime
• Show your phone number
• Replace MTN’s main USSD codes

If a blog claims otherwise, treat it with caution.

Official MTN USSD Codes That Always Work

To avoid frustration, here are confirmed MTN Nigeria USSD codes approved under NCC harmonization rules:

Check Airtime Balance

*310#

Recharge Airtime

*311*VoucherPIN#

Buy Data

*312#

Check Data Balance

*323#

Transfer Data

*321#

Check Your MTN Number

*123*1*1#

These codes are standardized across Nigerian networks following NCC reforms.

Why MTN 406# Is Not Publicly Documented Like Other Codes

MTN intentionally avoids listing promotional codes like 406# on official pages because:

• Offers change frequently
• Availability differs per user
• Publishing them encourages exploitation
• Promotions must remain controlled

This practice aligns with global telecom marketing standards.

You’ll notice that MTN’s official site and customer care focus on core service USSD codes, not promotional ones.

Is MTN 406# Safe to Dial?

Yes.

Dialing 406#:

• Does not deduct airtime
• Does not activate services automatically
• Does not subscribe you without consent

However, always read on-screen prompts carefully before confirming any offer.

Why Some People Say 406# “Stopped Working”

That statement is partly true — and partly misunderstood.

MTN can:

• Pause promotions
• Restrict eligibility
• Replace old promo codes
• Disable menus temporarily

So when someone says “406# no longer works,” what they really mean is:

It’s not active for them at that time.

MTN 406# vs Standard MTN Codes

Feature	MTN 406#	Standard MTN USSD
Purpose	Promotional offers	Core services
Availability	Limited	Always active
Same for all users	❌ No	✅ Yes
NCC standardized	❌ No	✅ Yes
Officially published	❌ No	✅ Yes

This comparison helps avoid wrong expectations.

How to Know If You’re Eligible for MTN 406# Offers

There’s no manual activation.

Eligibility depends on:

• Your recharge frequency
• Your tariff plan
• Your usage pattern
• Ongoing MTN campaigns

MTN’s system handles this automatically.

Best Practices When Using MTN Promotional Codes

To stay safe and informed:

1. Always confirm offer details on-screen
2. Check bonus expiry dates
3. Avoid third-party “hack” claims
4. Use official MTN codes for core services
5. Contact MTN customer care if unsure

MTN customer care remains the most reliable confirmation source.

Why USSD Codes Still Matter in Nigeria

Despite mobile apps, USSD remains essential because:

• It works without internet
• It functions on all phone types
• It’s fast and reliable
• It supports rural and low-data users

This explains why MTN continues investing in USSD services.

Trusted Sources & References

To maintain transparency and trust, this article aligns with:

• MTN Nigeria official service structure
• Nigerian Communications Commission USSD harmonization policies
• General USSD technical standards as defined in GSM specifications

No unofficial or fabricated claims were used.

Final Verdict

MTN 406# is a real but promotional USSD code, not a permanent service menu.

• It offers bonus-based deals, not core services
• It works only when MTN enables promotions
• It varies by user and time
• It should never replace standard MTN USSD codes

If you want guaranteed results, always rely on MTN’s official USSD numbers.