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Losing a phone in Nigeria can be devastating—especially when it contains sensitive information, financial apps, and personal memories. Whether it was stolen on public transport or misplaced during a night out, you must act fast. The good news is, there are legal and digital methods to track and possibly recover your lost phone.
TJ News Nigeria reports that thousands of mobile phones are reported stolen or missing every month, especially in high-traffic areas like Lagos, Abuja, Onitsha, and Port Harcourt.
This guide outlines step-by-step methods to track a lost or stolen phone in Nigeria, including how to use IMEI tracking, Google and Apple tools, and law enforcement support.
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1. Use Google’s “Find My Device” (Android Phones)
If you’re using an Android phone and your Google account was active before the phone went missing:
Steps:
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- Visit: https://www.google.com/android/find
- Log in with your Google account linked to the lost phone
- Select the device to view its location on a map
Features:
- Ring the phone at full volume
- Lock the phone with a custom message and number
- Erase your data remotely
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Requirements:
- The lost phone must be:
- Switched on
- Connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi
- Location services enabled
- Linked to your Google account
Note: If the device is switched off, you will see the last known location.
2. Use Apple’s “Find My iPhone” (iOS Devices)
For iPhone users, Find My iPhone is the most reliable method to track a missing device.
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Steps:
- Visit: https://www.icloud.com/find
- Log in with your Apple ID
- Select the missing iPhone to view it on a map
Features:
- Play a sound on the iPhone
- Put the phone in “Lost Mode” with a custom message
- Erase iPhone data remotely if necessary
Requirements:
- The lost iPhone must have:
- Find My iPhone enabled before it was lost
- Internet access (Wi-Fi or cellular)
- Linked iCloud account
3. Track Using IMEI Number (Works With Police or Telcos)
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit code assigned to every phone. Nigerian authorities and network providers can use it to blacklist or track a stolen phone.
How to Find Your IMEI:
- Dial
*#06#on your phone before it gets lost - Or check the original phone box or receipt
How to Track:
- Report the incident at a police station and provide the IMEI
- Request that the phone be tracked through NCC or your mobile operator
- Most networks in Nigeria (MTN, Airtel, Glo, 9mobile) can assist with IMEI-based blocking if you present:
- Police report
- Valid ID
- Purchase receipt or ownership proof
TJ News Nigeria gathered that several devices have been successfully recovered through this channel, especially when reported quickly.
4. Report to Your Network Provider
Each telecom operator in Nigeria offers customer support for lost/stolen phones. After blocking your SIM, they can assist with:
- Blacklisting the device
- Monitoring IMEI activity on their network
- Flagging the number to prevent unauthorized use
Contact Info:
- MTN: Call 180 or visit any MTN office
- Airtel: Call 111 or go to an Airtel Experience Centre
- Glo: Dial 121 or walk into a Glo World outlet
- 9mobile: Call 200 or visit a service center
Be sure to bring:
- A valid government-issued ID
- Police report (if available)
- IMEI and phone number details
5. Use Anti-Theft & Phone Recovery Apps
Before your phone goes missing, you can install third-party apps that help in real-time recovery.
Recommended Apps:
- Prey Anti-Theft: Tracks location, captures photos of intruder
- Cerberus (Android only): Remote commands, SIM change alerts
- Lookout: Malware protection + theft recovery
- Find My Mobile (Samsung): For all Samsung users via Samsung account
Note: These apps require setup before the phone is lost.
6. Monitor for Spyware or Tracking After Recovery
If your lost phone is recovered from an unknown source, immediately check for signs of monitoring or installed spyware. Criminals sometimes plant surveillance tools in recovered devices.
📌 Read more:
How to Know If Your Phone Is Being Monitored – 8 Signs
7. File a Police Report (With IMEI)
Even if you’re using Google or Apple tools, report the loss to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for formal tracking support. Provide:
- IMEI
- Phone make/model
- Last known location
- Owner details and proof
Some stations now collaborate with NCC and telecom operators to assist in recovery and blacklisting.
8. Preventive Tips to Avoid Phone Theft in Nigeria
- Don’t leave your phone on restaurant or bus seats
- Use lock screen security (PIN, fingerprint, Face ID)
- Enable location services and device tracking in advance
- Avoid answering calls from suspicious “lost phone return” claims
Final Word
Losing a phone doesn’t have to mean losing everything. Knowing how to track a lost or stolen phone in Nigeria empowers you to respond quickly and recover your device or at least protect your data.
TJ News Nigeria advises that users immediately activate tracking services, keep a copy of their IMEI, and report any theft within 24 hours for the highest chance of success.
For more guides on mobile safety, phone comparisons, and telecom updates, visit TJ News Nigeria.
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