Getting a call from a number that begins with 0810 can leave you wondering which mobile network it belongs to. You are not the only one who feels this way. Across Nigeria, phone number prefixes still confuse a lot of people. The introduction of mobile number portability has made things even trickier, allowing users to move from one network to another while keeping the same number. This change means the prefix you see might not always tell you the full story about the original network.
Recognizing your mobile network prefix is more than just trivia. It can help you spend less on calls, unlock special network offers, and steer clear of unexpected charges when calling numbers on other networks.
Let’s break down everything you should know about 0810, which network it belongs to, how mobile prefixes work in Nigeria, and how to confirm a number’s network even if the person has switched providers.
0810 is What Network in Nigeria?
The mobile number prefix 0810 originally belongs to MTN Nigeria. MTN introduced the 0810 range as part of its expansion to accommodate more subscribers when its earlier prefixes like 0803 and 0806 started filling up.
If you see a number like 0810 123 4567, the first four digits (0810) indicate the original network provider before any possible number portability. This means the line was first registered under MTN, even if the user has since ported to another network like Airtel or Glo.
How Nigerian Mobile Number Prefixes Work
Every mobile network provider in Nigeria is assigned specific number prefixes by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). These prefixes are the first four digits of a mobile number and help identify the original network provider.
Some examples:
- MTN: 0803, 0806, 0703, 0706, 0810, 0813, 0814, 0816, 0903, 0906, 0913, 0916
- Airtel: 0802, 0808, 0708, 0701, 0812, 0901, 0902, 0904, 0907, 0912
- Glo: 0805, 0807, 0705, 0811, 0815, 0905, 0915
- 9mobile: 0809, 0817, 0818, 0909, 0908
These prefixes were meant to make it easy for people to know which network they are calling. However, with Mobile Number Portability (MNP) introduced in 2013, Nigerians can switch networks and still keep their number. This means an 0810 number could be on Airtel or Glo today, depending on the user’s choice.
Also Read: 0904 is What Network in Nigeria? Find Out Which Telecom Provider Uses It
Why It Helps to Know the Network Before Calling
Knowing the network of the number you are calling is not just about curiosity. It can save you money and improve your call experience. Here’s how:
- Cheaper Call Rates
Many mobile networks in Nigeria offer cheaper rates for calls made within the same network. Calling across networks often costs more. - Bonus Offers
Some networks give you extra airtime or free minutes when you call numbers on the same network. - Better Call Quality
Calls within the same network sometimes have better connection quality because they are routed internally.
MTN NG Prefixes You Should Know
If you are trying to identify MTN numbers apart from 0810, here are some other prefixes originally assigned to MTN Nigeria:
- 0803
- 0806
- 0703
- 0706
- 0810
- 0813
- 0814
- 0816
- 0903
- 0906
- 0913
- 0916
Having these in mind makes it easier to spot MTN numbers at a glance.
What is Mobile Number Portability?
Mobile Number Portability (MNP) allows subscribers to change their service provider without changing their phone number. This was introduced in Nigeria to give consumers more freedom and encourage competition among telecom companies.
For example, someone with the number 0810 456 7890 could switch from MTN to Airtel and still keep their number. This means that while the prefix 0810 is originally MTN, the current provider could be something else.
Because of MNP, you should always verify the network if you want to enjoy cheaper in-network call rates.
How to Check Your Own Mobile Number Prefix
If you are not sure what your own prefix is or which network it belongs to, you can check by:
- Looking at the first four digits of your phone number
- Contacting your service provider directly
This is especially helpful for people who use multiple SIM cards and have trouble remembering which number belongs to which network.
Other MTN Number Ranges Apart from 0810
While 0810 is one of MTN’s popular prefixes, the company has several others to accommodate millions of subscribers. If you are a business owner or someone who makes frequent calls, knowing these ranges can help you manage your airtime more efficiently.
Some other MTN ranges include:
- 0813, 0814, 0816
- 0903, 0906
- 0913, 0916
These numbers all originally belong to MTN Nigeria, even if the users have since ported out.
How to Save on Calls When Dialing 0810 Numbers
If you often call numbers that start with 0810, you can save money by:
- Using MTN lines to call them if they are still on MTN
- Buying special MTN call bundles for in-network calls
- Using internet-based calling apps like WhatsApp when possible
As the number of mobile users in Nigeria continues to grow, it is likely that MTN and other providers will get new prefixes from the NCC to meet demand. This means you might start seeing new MTN number ranges beyond what is currently available. The important thing is to keep updated with the latest list of prefixes so you always know which network you are dealing with.
