How to Block a Number from Calling You on MTN, Glo, Airtel & 9mobile

Unwanted phone calls have become a growing nuisance in Nigeria, with users frequently reporting spam calls, fraud attempts, or harassment from unknown numbers. Whether you use MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, there are reliable ways to block numbers from calling you—either through your phone settings or network-level features.

TJ News Nigeria reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has also empowered users with Do Not Disturb (DND) options to limit promotional and unsolicited calls and SMS.

This guide explains how to block a number from calling you across all major networks in Nigeria using phone settings, carrier services, and regulatory tools.

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1. Block a Number Directly on Your Phone (Works on All Networks)

Most modern Android and iPhone devices have built-in call blocking features that work independent of your network provider.

For Android Phones:

1. Open the Phone or Call app
2. Tap the number you want to block
3. Select “Details” or the three-dot menu
4. Tap “Block number” or “Add to blacklist”

On some Android phones (Samsung, Infinix, Tecno), go to:
Settings > Block numbers and manually enter the number

For iPhones:

1. Go to Phone > Recents
2. Tap the “i” icon next to the number
3. Scroll down and select “Block this Caller”

This blocks both calls and text messages from that number.

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2. Use MTN Call Restriction or DND Services

MTN Nigeria offers call and SMS blocking via DND and parental control tools.

To block marketing calls and SMS (DND):

• Text STOP to 2442 (free)
• This activates NCC’s Do Not Disturb registry

For specific number blocking:

• Use phone’s call block settings
• MTN also supports call barring (via USSD):
  • Dial *35*0000# to block all outgoing calls (parental mode)
  • Dial *33*0000# to block all outgoing calls
  • Not for selective number blocking

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3. Block Numbers on Airtel Nigeria

Airtel DND for marketing SMS/calls:

• Text STOP to 2442

Block individual numbers:

• Use your phone’s inbuilt block feature
• For advanced parental control, Airtel Smart Family subscribers can manage incoming call restrictions via the Airtel app

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4. Glo Nigeria Call Blocking Options

DND Code for Glo:

• Text STOP to 2442 to opt-out of unsolicited messages

Glo doesn’t offer number-specific blocking at the SIM level. Use your phone’s built-in call block features.

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5. 9mobile (Etisalat) Blocking Options

Use DND to block spam calls and SMS:

• Text STOP to 2442

To block specific numbers:

• Use your phone settings (as 9mobile doesn’t offer individual number blocking via USSD)

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6. Use Third-Party Call Blocking Apps (Optional)

If your phone’s block list is full or you want advanced filtering:

• Truecaller: Blocks known spam numbers
• Hiya: Identifies and blocks robocalls
• Calls Blacklist (Android only): Manages block lists with scheduling
• Call Control: Community-reported spam number database

Apps like Truecaller may require internet and access to your contact list.

Also read: How to Reset Your Phone Without Losing Important Data

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7. How to Unblock a Number (All Phones)

• Android:
  • Go to Phone > Settings > Blocked numbers
  • Tap “X” or “Unblock”
• iPhone:
  • Go to Settings > Phone > Blocked Contacts
  • Swipe left on the number and tap Unblock

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8. Report Persistent Harassment or Scam Numbers

If someone is repeatedly threatening or harassing you, report them to:

• Your mobile network’s customer service
• The Nigeria Police (with call logs or SMS as evidence)
• Or the NCC Consumer Protection Department

You can also lodge complaints at www.ncc.gov.ng or call NCC’s toll-free number: 622

 

Pay Attention To: How to Track a Lost or Stolen Phone in Nigeria

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Final Word

Whether it’s an ex, a spammer, or a scam call, you don’t have to keep receiving calls you don’t want. With simple tools like phone settings, NCC’s 2442 DND code, and carrier support, you can block unwanted calls in Nigeria—easily and for free.

TJ News Nigeria advises all users to activate the DND service first, then use device-level tools for custom blocking. For stronger protection, consider a verified third-party app or contact your service provider directly.

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For more verified tech guides and mobile safety updates, visit TJ News Nigeria.