Sort Code
Nigerian banks use a 9-digit sort code to identify bank branches. Managed by the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), sort codes are used for interbank transfers via NIP (NIBSS Instant Payment) and NEFT electronic payment systems.
At a glance
Country
Nigeria
Identifier
SC
Format
9 digits
Used for
Domestic transfers
Format breakdown
044
Bank Code
1–3
Institution (e.g. 044 = Access Bank)
150
Branch Code
4–6
Branch identifier
123
Check Sequence
7–9
Validation digits
How SC works
The 9-digit sort code consists of a 3-digit bank code, 3-digit branch code, and a 3-digit check sequence. It is required for NEFT transfers but NIP (instant payments) typically uses only the bank code and account number.
Where to find yours
In your mobile banking app, on your bank statement, on your cheque book, or by contacting your bank.
Payment systems in Nigeria
| System | Speed | Description |
|---|---|---|
| NIP | Instant | NIBSS Instant Payment — real-time interbank transfers 24/7 |
| NEFT | Same day | Nigeria Electronic Fund Transfer for batch interbank payments |
| USSD Banking | Instant | Mobile banking via USSD codes (e.g. *737# for GTBank) |
Major banks in Nigeria
Good to know
For NIP instant transfers, you usually only need the bank name and 10-digit account number (NUBAN) — not the full sort code.
Key bank codes: 044 = Access, 057 = Zenith, 058 = GTBank, 033 = UBA, 011 = First Bank.
Opay, PalmPay, and Kuda are popular fintech apps that operate alongside traditional banks.
Related tools
Other countries
Frequently asked questions
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