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Calling the USA from Nigeria
How to Call the USA from Nigeria?
Calling the US from Nigeria is straightforward. Simply dial Nigeria’s exit code, the US country code, the area code, and the local number. This dialing method is the same for both landline and mobile numbers.
To call the US from Nigeria, dial:
009 + 1 + US area code + local number
Calling USA Toll-Free Numbers
Calling USA Toll-Free Numbers
Follow the steps below to call a US toll-free number from Nigeria:
Enter Nigeria’s international exit code
Nigeria’s exit code is 009.
Dial the US country code
The United States country code is 1.
Add the toll-free prefix
US toll-free numbers begin with prefixes like 800, 888, 877, 866, 855, 844, or 833.
Dial the remaining number
Enter the rest of the toll-free number to complete the call.
Note: US toll-free numbers do not accept international calls. Even if it connects, an international calling charge may apply.
Dialing Codes Involved While Calling USA From Nigeria
Calling the United States from Nigeria requires using the correct dialing sequence, including the Nigerian exit code, the U.S. country code, area code and the subscriber number. It ensures your call connects accurately to the intended person or business.
1. Nigerian Exit Code
Any international calls from Nigeria begin with the 009. Without dialing this code, the network would treat your call as local, and it would not be routed internationally.
2. Country Code
The United States country code is 1, which identifies the call as being directed to the U.S. and ensures it enters the American telephone system. This code allows the network to recognize the US as the destination country before routing the call to the specific city or region.
3. Area Codes in the USA
After the country code, the 3-digit US area code is required to identify the specific city or region you are calling. For example, you’d dial 212 for New York or 310 for Los Angeles.
Here are some of the popular area codes of the United States:
City/Region | Area Codes |
| Los Angeles, California | 213, 323, 310, 818, 424 |
| Seattle, Washington | 206, 253, 425 |
| New York City, New York | 212, 718, 917, 646, 929 |
| San Jose, California | 408, 669 |
| Denver, Colorado | 303, 720, 983 |
| Chicago, Illinois | 312, 773, 708 |
| Houston, Texas | 713, 281, 832 |
| Charlotte, North Carolina | 704, 980 |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | 215, 267, 445 |
| Phoenix, Arizona | 602, 480, 623 |
| Dallas, Texas | 214, 469, 972 |
| Miami, Florida | 305, 645, 786 |
4. Subscriber Number
The U.S. subscriber number is a unique 7-digit number assigned to the person or business you are calling. It is the final part of any US phone number and is unique to individuals or businesses.
Alternative Methods to Call the US from Nigeria
Calling Cards
A calling card is a prepaid option to make international calls by purchasing minutes in advance. They are a good alternative when you do not have internet access. However, many cards come with expiry dates, connection fees, or hidden rate changes, so it’s important to check the terms before buying and using them.
Wi-Fi Calling
Wi-Fi calling is a built-in phone feature that lets your calls go through a Wi-Fi network instead of a mobile signal, with no extra app needed. However, availability depends on the device model and your carrier. Once enabled in phone settings, calls are placed from the regular dialer, using the same phone number.
Social Media Apps
Social media apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Signal let you make calls using Wi-Fi or mobile data instead of regular mobile networks. The call is made between the apps, meaning both parties must use the same app during the call. The call quality also depends on how stable and strong your internet connection is.
VoIP Services
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone services also allow you to make calls over the internet using virtual phone numbers. But unlike social media apps, you can call regular landlines and mobile numbers. The calls are made through VoIP apps, available on smartphones, laptops, desktops, and tablets.
What’s the Best Time to Contact the US from Nigeria?
For business calls, the best time to call the US from Nigeria is during US business hours, usually 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
For personal calls, morning to early afternoon in the US works well. People are usually free around this time, which aligns with late afternoon or evening in Nigeria due to the time difference between the countries.
Nigeria is 6–9 hours ahead of the United States. It’s important to consider these differences so that your call reaches at a convenient time for your recipient.
The table below shows the best calling times from Nigeria to the various US time zones:
US Time Zone | Best Time to Call from Nigeria (WAT) | Corresponding Time in the US |
| Eastern (EST/ETD) | 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Central (CST/CDT) | 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Mountain (MST/MDT) | 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Pacific (PST/PDT) | 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Things to Consider Before Calling the US from Nigeria
Time Difference
The United States and Nigeria follow different time zones. Check the local time in the US before making the call to avoid calling at inappropriate hours.
Use the proper dialing format
Always begin the call with the Nigerian exit code, followed by the US country code, before entering the local phone number. Otherwise, your call may not connect.
Calling costs
International call rates are generally expensive with traditional methods. Consider using VoIP services; they often offer low rates for international calls.
How Much Does It Cost to Dial the US from Nigeria?
The cost of calling the US from Nigeria is usually around $0.023 to $1.5 per minute with Nigerian mobile carriers. The exact rate depends on your carrier and whether the call goes to a mobile or landline number.
Some carriers offer international calling bundles or add-on plans that slightly reduce the per-minute rate. However, even with these plans, costs can add up fast for frequent callers.
Calilio offers an affordable alternative for international calls. The rates are typically much lower than standard mobile carriers with no hidden fees.
Frequently asked questions
Can I call the USA from Nigeria using my Nigerian SIM card?
Yes. You can call the USA using a Nigerian SIM card. However, you need to ensure that international calling is enabled with your account. If not activated yet, you can contact your carrier to activate it instantly.
Why does my call to the USA fail even after dialing correctly?
Can I call the USA from Nigeria for free?
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