Have you ever tried streaming a YouTube video or downloading something urgent on your phone and your MTN data was just moving very slow? Yeah, we’ve all been there. It’s frustrating, right?
Well, there’s good news: You don’t have to suffer that kind of digital hardship anymore especially if you’re still stuck on a 3G or even 2G SIM. MTN now offers 4G connectivity and the difference is like switching from a tired bicycle to a turbocharged car. The speed, the clarity, the reliability, once you go 4G, trust me, you’re not looking back.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to upgrade your MTN SIM to 4G, step by step, no techy jargons, no long queues of confusion. Just real, practical help you can follow right now.
But first, let’s talk about why this whole 4G thing even matters.
How to Know If You Need a 4G SIM
Before you rush to upgrade, let’s make sure you even need to. Many Nigerians don’t even realize they’re still using old 3G SIMs and that’s like trying to stream Netflix on a phone from 2008.
a. Your Phone Only Shows 3G or E
Look at your signal bar. Does it say “3G,” “E” or “H+”? That’s a red flag. If it never shows “4G” or “LTE,” your SIM might not be compatible.
b. Use the MTN USSD Check
Dial *123*4*6# on your phone. MTN will instantly tell you whether your current SIM supports 4G. If it doesn’t, you’ll get a message like “Your SIM is not a 4G SIM.”
c. Check Your Phone Too
Some older phones don’t support 4G at all, regardless of your SIM. To check:
Go to your phone settings
Tap on Network or Mobile Network
See if there’s an option to select 4G/LTE as a preferred network
If it’s not there, sorry fam, you may need to upgrade your device too.
d. The Physical SIM Card Itself
If your SIM card is thicker, older, or doesn’t look like the sleek newer designs, that’s another sign you’re due for an upgrade. Don’t worry, your number stays the same.
The Step-by-Step Guide on How to Upgrade MTN SIM to 4G
Now for the part you’ve been waiting for, the actual upgrade process. Don’t stress. It’s not a long thing, and it won’t take your whole day.
Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Back Up Your Contacts
Just in case your contacts are still saved on your old SIM (instead of your phone or cloud), back them up. You can copy them to your phone storage or Google account. Better safe than sorry, right?
Step 2: Locate the Nearest MTN Service Center
Google “MTN service center near me” or walk into any MTN Connect store. They’re literally everywhere, from Lagos to Lokoja, Owerri to Osogbo. Just make sure it’s an official center, not those “roadside SIM guys.”
Step 3: Go With These Essentials
Here’s what you must take along:
Your current MTN SIM card
A valid ID card (Voter’s card, NIN, Driver’s license, etc.)
Your phone, obviously
Tell the customer care rep that you want to upgrade your SIM to 4G.
Step 4: SIM Registration and 4G Swap
They’ll register the new SIM for you on the spot. Your phone number stays the same, don’t worry. They might ask you to verify ownership by answering a few security questions (like the last number you recharged).
Once that’s done, they’ll give you a new 4G SIM, and you’re good to go!
Step 5: Activate the New SIM
Put the new SIM into your phone, restart the phone and BOOM, you should see “4G” or “LTE” at the top bar.
If it doesn’t show right away, wait a few minutes or toggle airplane mode on and off.
Bonus: Claim Your 10GB FREE Data (If Promo Is Active)
If MTN is still running their 4G welcome bonus, just text “4G” to 131 after the upgrade and you may receive 10GB free to enjoy your new speed lifestyle.
Also Read
What If You Don’t Want to Visit a Center? (Home Upgrade Option)
Too busy or just not a fan of standing in long queues? Good news: MTN offers a home delivery service for SIM upgrades in certain areas!
Here’s how:
1. Visit the official MTN Nigeria website
2. Go to their 4G upgrade section
3. Fill the online request form for home SIM delivery
4. MTN agents will reach out to you and schedule a visit
You’ll still need a valid ID, but the comfort of doing it all from your living room? Priceless.
Alternatively, you can buy a 4G SIM starter pack from any MTN retail shop, register it, and then use the SIM swap process to transfer your number to it. This works if you know your way around tech a bit.
Benefits You Get After Upgrading to 4G
Alright, let’s talk about what you really came for, the goodies. Here’s a recap of the benefits you enjoy once you make the switch to MTN 4G:
1. Faster downloads & uploads (No more endless loading bars)
2. Clearer voice calls with VoLTE support
3. Stable internet connection, even during peak hours
4. Exclusive data bundles for 4G users
5. Up to 10GB FREE DATA just for upgrading
FAQs On How to Upgrade MTN SIM to 4G
Q: Will I lose my phone number after upgrading?
Nope. Your number stays the same, it’s just your SIM that changes.
Q: Is it free to upgrade my SIM?
Yes, MTN does it for free. Just bring a valid ID card.
Q: Can I upgrade on weekends?
Yes, most MTN stores are open on Saturdays. Just check the timing before you go.
Q: Can I transfer airtime and data from my old SIM to the new one?
Yes, everything on your number, airtime, data, bundles…gets moved to the new SIM automatically.
Q: My phone doesn’t support 4G. What do I do?
You’ll need a 4G-enabled phone to enjoy the full benefits. Consider upgrading your device.
Conclusion
Upgrading your MTN SIM to 4G is one of the smartest moves you can make in today’s fast-paced digital world. From speed to clarity to juicy bonuses, the benefits are endless and the process is surprisingly easy.
So, why settle for less when you could be browsing faster, streaming smoother, and calling clearer just by upgrading your SIM?
Isn’t it time you finally made the switch to 4G today?
