Ever tried calling your cousin in New York only to be met with frustrating silence or a string of error messages? Connecting with loved ones, conducting business, or accessing important services in the United States from Nigeria shouldn't be a headache. Whether you're navigating unfamiliar dialing codes, struggling with time zone differences, or simply looking for the most cost-effective calling options, understanding the process of making international calls is essential for staying connected in our increasingly globalized world. Making a simple phone call can bridge geographical distances, foster relationships, and unlock opportunities.
Knowing the correct procedures can save you money, prevent technical glitches, and ensure your calls go through smoothly. From understanding international exit codes and country codes to exploring alternative calling methods like VoIP services and mobile apps, there are several factors to consider. This guide will walk you through each step, providing clarity and practical tips to make calling the USA from Nigeria a breeze.
What do I need to know to successfully call the USA from Nigeria?
What's the cheapest way to call the USA from Nigeria?
The cheapest way to call the USA from Nigeria is generally by using internet-based Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services or mobile apps that offer international calling at reduced rates. These services leverage internet connectivity rather than traditional phone networks, significantly lowering costs.
Several VoIP services and mobile apps are available for making international calls. Popular options include WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, Google Voice, and specialized international calling apps like Rebtel or Localphone. These services typically offer significantly lower per-minute rates compared to direct dialing through Nigerian mobile networks or landlines. The actual cost depends on the service provider, the calling plan you choose (if any), and the internet connection's stability and speed. Always compare rates and features before choosing a service.
Before making a call, ensure both you and the person you're calling in the USA have a stable internet connection. Wi-Fi is preferable to mobile data to avoid unexpected data charges. Also, be mindful of time zone differences to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Finally, check if the service offers free calls to the USA under certain circumstances (e.g., free calls to other users of the same app).
What is the correct exit code to dial from Nigeria to the USA?
The correct exit code to dial from Nigeria to the USA is 009. You'll need to dial this before the US country code and the US phone number to successfully connect your call.
When making an international call from Nigeria, the "009" sequence tells the Nigerian phone network that you are about to dial a number outside of Nigeria. Following the exit code, you must enter the country code for the United States, which is "1". After entering "1", you then dial the US area code (a three-digit number) and the seven-digit local phone number you are trying to reach. Therefore, the complete dialing sequence would be: 009 + 1 + [US Area Code] + [7-Digit US Phone Number]. For example, if you were trying to call the number (212) 555-1212 in New York City, you would dial 00912125551212. Remember to double-check that you have the correct area code for the specific location in the US you are trying to call.Do I need to include the 00 when calling the USA from Nigeria with a mobile phone?
Yes, you typically need to include "00" when calling the USA from Nigeria using a mobile phone. "00" is the international access code used in Nigeria to dial out of the country.
When making an international call from Nigeria, you must first dial the international access code, followed by the country code for the United States (1), then the area code, and finally the local phone number. Omitting the "00" will result in the call not being routed internationally. Therefore, the correct format would be: 00-1-area code-phone number.
However, sometimes "+" can be used instead of "00." Some mobile phones automatically replace the plus sign (+) with the appropriate international access code based on your location. So, you could potentially dial +1-area code-phone number. If you are unsure, using "00" is generally the safest bet to ensure your call goes through.
Are there any calling apps that offer free calls from Nigeria to the USA?
Yes, several calling apps offer the possibility of making free calls from Nigeria to the USA, primarily leveraging Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. These apps generally allow free calls between users of the same app and may offer limited free calling minutes to regular phone numbers in the US, often supported by in-app advertisements or requiring subscription for extended use.
The "free" aspect usually hinges on the app's business model. Many apps offer free calls between users within their network. For example, if both the caller in Nigeria and the receiver in the USA have the same app installed and are connected to the internet, the call is essentially data-based, avoiding traditional phone charges. When calling a US phone number directly, some apps provide a small number of free minutes daily or monthly, hoping you'll eventually upgrade to a paid plan. These plans often offer better call quality and remove ads. Keep in mind that while the app itself might be free, you'll still need an internet connection, either through Wi-Fi or mobile data. Data charges from your Nigerian mobile provider will apply when using mobile data. Also, call quality heavily relies on the strength and stability of your internet connection. Poor internet can result in dropped calls or garbled audio. Popular options include WhatsApp (for calls between WhatsApp users), Telegram, Skype, and Viber. Some less well-known apps specifically target international calling and may offer competitive rates or promotional free minutes to certain destinations. Always carefully review the terms and conditions to understand any hidden fees or limitations.How much does it cost to call a US mobile number from Nigeria using a local Nigerian SIM card?
The cost of calling a US mobile number from Nigeria using a local Nigerian SIM card varies depending on the mobile network operator, the specific calling plan you are subscribed to, and any ongoing promotions. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from NGN 50 to NGN 200 or more per minute for international calls to the United States.
Several factors influence the actual cost. Different Nigerian mobile networks like MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile have different international call rates. Some networks offer specific international calling bundles or plans that can significantly reduce the per-minute cost, while others apply standard, often higher, rates. It's crucial to check the current rates and available bundles with your chosen network provider before making the call. These rates are subject to change, so verifying them regularly is recommended. To find the best rates, visit your network provider's website or use their mobile app. Look for international calling plans specifically designed for calls to the USA. Consider purchasing a bundle if you frequently call US numbers, as this can prove much cheaper than paying per minute. Also, explore alternative calling methods like using VoIP services such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber, which usually rely on data connections and can be significantly more cost-effective, especially if you have a good Wi-Fi connection. Remember to factor in the data cost if using mobile data.Besides direct dialing, what are alternative ways to call the USA from Nigeria?
Besides direct dialing, alternative ways to call the USA from Nigeria include using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber, utilizing international calling cards, or leveraging mobile apps that offer international calls at reduced rates.
Many people now favor VoIP services because they often offer significantly cheaper rates than traditional direct dialing, especially if both the caller and receiver have access to Wi-Fi or a reliable data connection. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber allow you to make calls to other users of the same app for free or to landlines and mobile numbers in the US at competitive rates. The call quality can be very good, dependent on internet bandwidth. International calling cards are still a viable option, particularly for those without consistent internet access. These cards can be purchased from vendors in Nigeria and come pre-loaded with a certain amount of call time. Users dial a specified access number, enter a PIN, and then dial the US number they wish to call. Costs vary based on the card provider and the promotional deals available. However, be mindful of connection fees or per-minute charges that might reduce the actual call time. Mobile apps specifically designed for international calling, such as Rebtel or Vonage Mobile, provide another avenue, offering competitive rates and often better call quality than calling cards while still remaining potentially cheaper than direct dialing.Are there any time zone considerations when calling the US from Nigeria?
Yes, significant time zone differences exist between Nigeria and the United States, making it crucial to consider the time in both locations to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Nigeria observes West Africa Time (WAT), which is UTC+1. The US, on the other hand, spans multiple time zones, including Eastern Time (ET), Central Time (CT), Mountain Time (MT), and Pacific Time (PT), each with its own UTC offset and further adjustments during Daylight Saving Time (DST).
Because the US has multiple time zones and utilizes Daylight Saving Time during the spring and summer months, the exact time difference varies. For instance, during Standard Time (typically November to March), Nigeria is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time, 7 hours ahead of Central Time, 8 hours ahead of Mountain Time, and 9 hours ahead of Pacific Time. During Daylight Saving Time (typically March to November), the differences shift to 5, 6, 7, and 8 hours respectively. Therefore, before placing a call, it's essential to determine the specific time zone of the person you are trying to reach in the US and whether that location is currently observing DST. Online time zone converters are readily available to help calculate the exact time difference and identify suitable calling windows. For example, if you want to call someone in New York (Eastern Time) during DST, remember Nigeria is 5 hours ahead. So, if it's 2 PM in New York, it's 7 PM in Nigeria.And there you have it! Calling the USA from Nigeria doesn't have to be a headache. With a little planning and the right information, you'll be chatting with friends and family in no time. Thanks for reading, and we hope this guide was helpful. Come back soon for more tips and tricks to make international communication a breeze!