How to Play Lotto via USSD in Nigeria
Last updated: May 2026
USSD lottery allows you to play Nigerian lottery games directly from your mobile phone without internet access. This guide explains how USSD lottery works, which operators support it, and how to use it step by step.
What Is USSD Lottery?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is the technology behind shortcodes you dial on your phone — similar to the codes used for mobile banking. USSD works on any GSM handset, including basic feature phones without smartphone capabilities, and does not require an internet connection. A USSD session opens a menu on your screen that you navigate by dialling option numbers.
Several major Nigerian lottery operators have USSD services that allow players to check results, place bets, fund wallets, and check account balances entirely through the dialling interface.
Operators with USSD Lottery Services
The following operators are known to offer USSD channels for Nigerian players:
- Golden Chance Lotto: USSD service for result checking and betting. Confirm the current code at goldenchancelotto.com or by calling 07076451918.
- Premier Lotto (Baba Ijebu): USSD functionality available. Confirm the current code at premierlotto.com.ng.
- Other operators: Check the official website of the specific operator for current USSD code availability.
Always verify the official USSD code directly with the operator before using it. Unofficial or outdated codes may lead to fraudulent services.
How to Play Lottery via USSD: Step by Step
- Obtain the official USSD code from the operator’s website or customer care line.
- Dial the code from your phone keypad, just as you would dial a call. A menu screen opens automatically.
- Navigate the menu: Use the numbered options displayed on screen to select the service you need — betting, results, balance, or account management.
- Select your game type: Choose from the available draw sessions or game types offered through the USSD menu.
- Enter your numbers: Type the numbers you want to play when prompted.
- Choose your bet type: Select Direct, Nap, Perm, or other available types from the menu options.
- Enter your stake: Type the amount you want to stake when prompted.
- Confirm the bet: Review the summary displayed on screen and confirm. A confirmation SMS is usually sent to your number as proof of the transaction.
How to Fund Your USSD Lottery Wallet
You need funds in your lottery wallet before you can place bets via USSD. Common funding methods through the USSD interface include:
- Bank USSD transfer to the operator’s account number (e.g., *737# for GTBank, *822# for Access Bank)
- Airtime-to-cash conversion where supported
- Online bank transfer with a reference code generated by the lottery USSD menu
Follow the funding instructions in the USSD menu or on the operator’s website for the specific steps.
How to Check Results via USSD
Most USSD lottery services include a results section in the menu. Navigate to Results, select the game type and draw session, and the winning numbers are displayed on screen. This is one of the fastest ways to check results without internet access.
How to Withdraw USSD Lottery Winnings
Winnings from USSD lottery bets are credited to your account wallet. To withdraw:
- Dial the USSD code and navigate to Withdrawal or Cash Out
- Enter the amount to withdraw
- Confirm the withdrawal to your registered bank account
Processing time for withdrawals varies by operator. Your registered bank account must match the name on your lottery account for the transfer to process successfully.
USSD vs Online vs Retail Agent: Which Is Best?
- USSD: Best for players without smartphone or internet access. Works on basic phones. Limited to what the menu supports.
- Online/app: Most feature-rich. Full game selection, detailed history, deposit limits. Requires internet access and a smartphone.
- Retail agent: Best for cash transactions. No account required for basic play. Physical ticket provides tangible proof of bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is USSD lottery available on all networks?
Most major operator USSD codes work across MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, but availability can vary. Confirm with the operator if you experience issues on a specific network.
Does a USSD lottery session use airtime?
Some USSD sessions on licensed operators are free, as operators pay the network for the service. Others may use a small amount of airtime. Check your airtime balance before and after a session to monitor any deductions.
What if a USSD session drops mid-bet?
Redial and check your account history before repeating the bet. The transaction may have processed before the session dropped. Placing the same bet twice will charge you twice.
Play responsibly. Lottery is for entertainment. You must be 18 or older to play any Nigerian lottery game. If gambling is affecting your life, please seek help — see our Responsible Gambling page for support resources.