Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria USSD Code *977# — Complete Guide
Banking without the internet is no longer a limitation in Nigeria, thanks to USSD technology. The Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria USSD code *977# gives individual account holders instant access to key banking services — from checking account balances to transferring funds and paying bills — all from their registered mobile number, without needing data or Wi-Fi. Whether you are in a low-connectivity area or simply prefer a faster alternative to mobile apps, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about activating and using the *977# service.
If you already bank with Standard Chartered Nigeria, this is one of the most convenient tools at your disposal. And if you’re curious how it stacks up against other banks’ offerings, it operates similarly to the Fidelity Bank USSD code *770*0# service, which also allows balance checks and transfers without internet access.
Overview of the Standard Chartered *977# USSD Service
Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria’s USSD banking platform is accessible via the short code *977#, dialled directly from your mobile phone. The service is designed to bring essential banking functions to your fingertips — no smartphone, no data connection, and no bank visit required.
Once activated, customers can use *977# to:
- Check their account balance
- Transfer funds to other accounts
- Pay bills conveniently
- Manage basic banking transactions on the go
The service is powered by your registered mobile number — the same number linked to your Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria account. This means security is baked in from the start, as only your registered line can initiate transactions.
Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria is one of the prominent international commercial banks operating in the country. To see how it fits within Nigeria’s broader banking landscape, you can explore the full list of commercial banks in Nigeria from the CBN portal.
Eligibility — Who Can Use *977#?
The Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria USSD code *977# is available to a specific category of customers. Before attempting to activate the service, confirm that you meet the following criteria:
- Individual account holders only: The service is exclusively available to personal/individual account holders. Joint account holders and corporate account holders are not eligible.
- Registered mobile number: Your mobile number must be officially linked to your Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria account. Transactions can only be initiated from this registered number.
- Active Standard Chartered account: You must hold an active account with Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria.
If you are unsure whether your mobile number is registered to your account, visit any Standard Chartered branch or contact their customer service to update your records before proceeding.
Benefits of Using the Standard Chartered *977# USSD Code
The *977# platform offers a range of practical benefits that make everyday banking simpler and more accessible:
- No internet required: Airtime and data usage are completely free when using the USSD service — you only pay applicable transaction charges.
- 24/7 availability: Access your account any time of day or night, even on weekends and public holidays.
- Fast and secure transactions: A 6-digit USSD Transaction PIN protects every transaction, ensuring your funds stay safe.
- Funds transfers: Send money directly from your account to other beneficiaries quickly and easily.
- Bill payments: Pay utility and other bills without visiting a bank or agent.
- Balance enquiries: Instantly check your account balance at any time.
Applicable Charges
While airtime and data are not charged for using the USSD service, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria applies the following fees for certain transactions:
- Funds Transfers: A session cost of ₦6.98 applies per transfer transaction.
- Bill Payments: A convenience fee of ₦100 is charged per bill payment.
- Balance Checks: Free — no charge for checking your account balance.
These charges are standard and competitive within Nigeria’s banking sector. Always confirm the latest fee schedule on the official Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria *977# page as fees may be updated from time to time.
How to Activate and Use *977# — Step-by-Step
Step 1: Activate the Service
To get started with the Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria USSD code, you must first activate the service. Follow these steps:
- From your registered mobile number, dial *977*911#
- A menu will appear — select Option 2
- Follow the on-screen prompts to create your 6-digit USSD Transaction PIN
- Confirm your PIN as instructed to complete activation
Step 2: Access Banking Services
Once activated, simply dial *977# from your registered number at any time to access the main menu. From there, you can:
- Select Balance Enquiry to view your account balance
- Select Funds Transfer to send money to another account
- Select Bill Payment to settle outstanding bills
Step 3: Authenticate Your Transaction
For every transaction, you will be required to enter your 6-digit USSD Transaction PIN. Keep this PIN confidential and do not share it with anyone. If you believe your PIN has been compromised, contact Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria’s customer service immediately.
This approach is quite similar to how other Nigerian banks handle USSD security. For comparison, you can check out the Sterling Bank USSD balance check *822*6# full guide to see how PIN-based authentication works across different platforms.
Important Dates
The Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria *977# USSD service is an evergreen, always-available service — there is no application deadline or enrolment window. Eligible individual account holders can activate the service at any time. Always check the official Standard Chartered Nigeria USSD page for the most current information on service availability and updates.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of *977#
- Keep your registered number active: Ensure the SIM card linked to your account is always active. A deactivated or ported number can disrupt access to the service.
- Memorise your PIN: Avoid writing your 6-digit USSD PIN anywhere that could be accessed by others. Memorising it keeps your account secure.
- Double-check transfer details: Before confirming any funds transfer, verify the recipient’s account number and bank to avoid sending money to the wrong account.
- Update your records promptly: If you change your mobile number, visit a Standard Chartered branch immediately to update your registered number so you don’t lose access.
- Use official channels only: Only dial *977# directly from your phone’s dialler. Never share your PIN in response to calls, SMS, or messages claiming to be from the bank.
- Save the activation code: Keep *977*911# handy in case you need to re-activate or reset your service in the future.
If you work with or aspire to work with Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, you may also find it useful to review the Standard Chartered salary scale to understand the compensation structure across different roles at the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use *977# on any phone?
Yes. The *977# USSD service works on any mobile phone — including basic feature phones — as long as the SIM in use is the registered number linked to your Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria account. You do not need a smartphone or internet connection.
2. What happens if I forget my USSD Transaction PIN?
If you forget your 6-digit USSD Transaction PIN, you can reset it by dialling *977*911# from your registered number and following the prompts. Alternatively, visit your nearest Standard Chartered branch or contact customer support for assistance.
3. Is the *977# service available for joint or corporate accounts?
No. The Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria USSD code *977# is exclusively available to individual account holders. Joint account holders and corporate account holders are not eligible to use this service.
4. Are there daily transaction limits on *977#?
Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria may apply daily transaction limits on USSD transfers and payments in line with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations. For the most accurate and up-to-date limits, visit the official *977# banking page or contact Standard Chartered customer care directly.
5. Will I be charged for simply checking my balance?
No. Balance enquiries via *977# are completely free of charge. Charges only apply to funds transfers (₦6.98 per session) and bill payments (₦100 convenience fee). Airtime and data are not deducted for any USSD session.
Start Banking Smarter with *977# Today
The Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria USSD code *977# is a powerful, accessible, and secure way to manage your finances — anytime, anywhere, without needing the internet. Whether you need to check your balance on the go, transfer funds to a family member, or settle a bill quickly, *977# puts essential banking in the palm of your hand.
Activation takes just a few minutes: dial *977*911# from your registered mobile number, select option 2, and set your 6-digit PIN. From that moment on, you have full USSD banking access at zero data cost.
Ready to get started? Visit the official Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria *977# banking page for full details, terms, and the latest updates on the service. Take control of your banking today — no internet required.