As of March 1, 2024, OPay, like other financial institutions in Nigeria, requires users to verify their accounts with either a Bank Verification Number (BVN) or a National Identification Number (NIN) to comply with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) regulations. However, understanding the importance of financial inclusion, OPay offers alternative verification methods for those who might not have a BVN or NIN readily available.
Here’s a quick guide on how you can verify your OPay account:
- National Identification Number (NIN):
If you have a NIN, you can use it to verify your OPay account. This is the most preferred alternative to BVN and is readily accepted by OPay.
- NEPA Bill (Electricity Bill):
You can use your recent NEPA bill (not older than 3 months) as proof of address for verification. This option is helpful for individuals who haven’t obtained a NIN yet.
- Phone Number Verification (Limited Functionality):
While not a full verification method, OPay allows limited functionality with just your phone number verification. However, this restricts your ability to perform certain transactions, like sending and receiving large sums of money.
Here’s what you need to remember:
- OPay prioritizes NIN verification as the most secure and compliant option.
- Using a NEPA bill is an alternative for those without a BVN or NIN, but it comes with limitations.
- Phone number verification alone offers limited functionality and is not considered a full account verification.
Method 1: Verifying Your OPay Account with National Identity Number (NIN)
The National Identity Number (NIN) is a unique identification number issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to Nigerian citizens and legal residents. If you have an active NIN, you can use it to verify your OPay account. Here’s how:
- Log in to your OPay account: Open the OPay app on your smartphone and enter your login credentials to access your account.
- Navigate to the verification section: Look for the “Verify Account” or “KYC” option within the app’s settings or profile section.
- Select NIN as your verification method: Once you’re in the verification section, choose “NIN” as the preferred method for account verification.
- Enter your NIN: Input your National Identity Number accurately to complete the verification process.
- Submit the verification: After entering your NIN, submit the verification request. OPay will then cross-check your details with the NIMC database and confirm your account verification.
Method 2: Verifying Your OPay Account with a NEPA Bill
If you don’t have a National Identity Number, you can use a recent NEPA (Nigerian Electricity Power Authority) bill as an alternative method to verify your OPay account. Here’s how to do it:
- Log in to your OPay account: Open the OPay app and enter your login credentials to access your account.
- Navigate to the verification section: Find the “Verify Account” or “KYC” option within the app’s settings or profile section.
- Select NEPA bill as your verification method: Choose “NEPA Bill” as the preferred method for account verification.
- Upload a clear image of your NEPA bill: Take a clear photo of your NEPA bill, ensuring that your name, address, and billing details are visible. Upload this image to the app as part of the verification process.
- Submit the verification: After uploading the NEPA bill, submit the verification request. OPay will verify your details against the information on the bill and confirm your account verification.
Method 3: Verifying Your OPay Account with Your Phone Number
If you still don’t have a National Identity Number or a recent NEPA bill, you can use your phone number to verify your OPay account. However, this method may have some limitations, as it might not grant you access to all OPay services. Here’s how to verify your account using your phone number:
- Log in to your OPay account: Open the OPay app and enter your login credentials to access your account.
- Navigate to the verification section: Find the “Verify Account” or “KYC” option within the app’s settings or profile section.
- Select Phone Number as your verification method: Choose “Phone Number” as the preferred method for account verification.
- Enter your phone number: Input your active phone number that you used to register for the OPay account.
- Submit the verification: After entering your phone number, submit the verification request. OPay will verify your details and confirm your account verification.
In conclusion, verifying your OPay account without a BVN is possible using alternative methods such as NIN, NEPA bill, or your phone number. While some services might be limited without a BVN, these methods can still help you access a range of features on the platform. Always ensure that you provide accurate information during the verification process to avoid any issues with your account