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Ikiodiete George
- 2 Min Read
How To Activate & Deactivate Call Forwarding On All Networks In Nigeria (2025 Updated Guide)
Call forwarding allows you to divert incoming calls to another number—whether it’s your second line, a colleague’s number, or voicemail. It’s especially useful when:
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You’re out of network coverage
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Your phone is switched off
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You’re on another call
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You simply don’t want to be disturbed
Thankfully, all mobile networks in Nigeria support this feature with simple codes and settings.
Types of Call Forwarding You Can Set
| Type | What It Does |
| Always Forward | Forwards all calls instantly |
| Forward When Busy | Forwards calls only when you're on another call |
| Forward When Unanswered | Forwards if you don’t answer after a few rings |
| Forward When Unreachable | Forwards if your phone is switched off or offline |
Call Forwarding Codes for MTN, Airtel, Glo & 9Mobile
Use the same universal GSM codes across all Nigerian networks:
| Action | USSD Code |
| Activate: Forward all calls | **21*PhoneNumber# |
| Activate: When busy | **67*PhoneNumber# |
| Activate: When unanswered | **61*PhoneNumber# |
| Activate: When unreachable | **62*PhoneNumber# |
| Check current status | *#21#, *#67#, *#61# |
| Deactivate a specific type | ##21#, ##67#, ##61# |
| Deactivate all forwarding | ##002# |
Example: To forward all your calls to 08012345678, dial **21*08012345678# and press Send.
To cancel it later, dial ##21# or ##002# to remove all forwarding.
These codes work for:
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MTN Nigeria
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Airtel Nigeria
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Glo Nigeria
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9Mobile (Etisalat Nigeria)
How to Activate/Deactivate Call Forwarding via Phone Settings
Android Phones:
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Open the Phone or Dialer app
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Tap the menu (3 dots) → Settings
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Go to Call settings or Calling accounts
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Select Call Forwarding
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Choose from: Always forward, When busy, When unanswered, When unreachable
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Enter the forwarding number and save
iPhone (iOS):
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Go to Settings → Phone
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Tap Call Forwarding
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Toggle it ON
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Enter the phone number to forward calls to
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Exit settings to activate
Note: Some iPhone users on 9Mobile or Glo may not see the option—use USSD codes instead.
Use Cases for Each Forwarding Type
| Forwarding Type | Best For... |
| Always Forward | Traveling, giving someone temporary control |
| When Busy | Frequent business calls, avoiding interruptions |
| When Unanswered | Screening calls or during meetings |
| When Unreachable | Power outages, no network, or phone is off |
Quick Summary Table
| Network | Activate All | Deactivate All | Check Status |
| MTN | **21*Number# | ##002# | *#21# |
| Airtel | **21*Number# | ##002# | *#21# |
| Glo | **21*Number# | ##002# | *#21# |
| 9Mobile | **21*Number# | ##002# | *#21# |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I forward calls to another network?
Yes. You can forward MTN to Airtel, Glo to 9Mobile, etc. It works across all Nigerian GSM networks.
2. Will I be charged for call forwarding?
Yes. You’ll be charged for the redirected call as if you made the call yourself.
3. Can I forward to an international number?
Usually no—Nigerian networks restrict forwarding to local numbers only.
4. Will I receive missed call alerts for forwarded calls?
No. Calls will go directly to the forwarded number—you won’t get alerts.
5. How do I stop all call forwarding immediately?
Dial ##002# on your phone to cancel every type of call forwarding.
Conclusion
Whether you’re busy, unavailable, or simply multitasking, call forwarding is a smart and free tool that keeps you in control of your incoming calls. By using the quick USSD codes or your phone’s settings, you can easily forward or cancel calls on MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9Mobile—no third-party app needed.