Home How the CBN’s New Guidelines on BVN Will Affect You — What to Do Before May 1

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How the CBN’s New Guidelines on BVN Will Affect You — What to Do Before May 1

From phone number limits to stricter app access, here’s how it affects you and what to do now.

byOluwagbohunmi Bajela

April 21, 2026

Credit: Alliance Law Firm

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced new Bank Verification Number (BVN) rules, which will take effect on May 1, 2026.

Banking in Nigeria is about to get stricter; the rules may feel restrictive, but they have been designed to address banking fraud in the country.

If you ignore the CBN’s new BVN guidelines, you could face locked accounts, failed transactions, or access issues after May 1.

What’s Changing (And Why It Matters)

1. From May 1, you cannot change your BVN-linked phone number more than once in your lifetime. This is aimed at stopping fraudsters who hijack SIM cards to access bank accounts.

2. Your mobile banking app will now be tied to just one device at a time. When you log in on a new phone, your mobile banking app on the old one will be logged out. You will also be required to go through extra verification for every switch.

3. If you log in on a new phone, you can only make limited transactions of up to ₦20,000 for the first 24 hours.

4. Banks can place your BVN on a 24-hour watchlist if anything looks suspicious. During that time, your account could be restricted or frozen.

5. There will be age restrictions. Only Nigerians aged 18 and above can own a BVN. Minors must now operate accounts under their guardians.

What You Should Do Before May 1

1. Make sure your BVN-linked number is active and registered in your name. Also, be sure it’s linked to your NIN to be on the safe side.

2. Choose your primary device for your mobile banking so that you avoid constant switching after May 1.

3. Secure your SIM card(s) because they are the main target (keep your devices well-protected too). Enable a SIM lock and PIN, and ensure proper registration of the SIM.

4. Double-check your account details to verify your name, date of birth, access PINs, and other linked accounts. Any mismatch may trigger restrictions later.

5. With the CBN’s new BVN guidelines expect stricter accessibility to mobile banking apps, such as OTP delays, extra login verification, and temporary transaction limits.

About The Author

Oluwagbohunmi Bajela

Oluwagbohunmi is a content writer with a knack for storytelling that allows her simplify ideas and present them in a way that captures attention, builds understanding, and connects with readers.

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