Is your phone number showing up as “Private Number” or “Unknown Caller” when you make calls? You're definitely not the only one. It can be frustrating—especially when friends or family keep ignoring your calls because they think it's spam.
But don’t worry, fixing this is easier than you might think! Whether you're using MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, and whether you're on Android, iPhone, or even a button phone, this guide will walk you through how to stop hiding your caller ID and start showing your number again.
Why Is My Number Showing as Private?
Here are some common reasons why your number might be hidden:
- You accidentally turned on "Hide Caller ID" in your phone settings
- Your network provider has caller ID disabled by default
- You dialed a code like *#31# that hides your number
- There’s a restriction on your SIM or account settings
Let’s look at how to fix this on different types of phones.
How to Turn Off Private Number on Android
Using a Samsung, Infinix, Tecno, Xiaomi, or any Android phone? Here’s what to do:
- Open the Phone app
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner
- Select Settings
- Choose Call Settings or Calls
- Tap Additional Settings
- Select Caller ID
- Choose “Show number” or “Network default”
Tip: Restart your phone after changing the settings to make sure they take effect.
How to Show Your Number on iPhone
On an iPhone, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings
- Tap Phone
- Select Show My Caller ID
- Toggle it ON
If the toggle is greyed out, your network might have locked the feature. You’ll need to call your service provider to get it fixed.
For Button Phones (Keypad Phones)
Still using a classic button phone? No problem:
- Just dial #31# and press the call button
- Or dial #31# followed by the number you want to call (e.g., #31#08012345678) to show your number just for that call
Network-Specific Steps for MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile
MTN:
- Dial #31#
- Or go to your phone’s caller ID settings and choose “Show My Caller ID”
- Still hidden? Call MTN customer care
Airtel:
- Use the same method as Android or iPhone above
- If it still doesn’t work, contact Airtel support
Glo:
- Dial #31#
- Or text SHOW to 31 to unhide your number
9mobile:
- Go to your phone’s call settings and enable caller ID
- Dial #31# to disable private number mode
- Call 9mobile customer care if you're still hidden
Quick USSD Codes to Show Your Number
- #31# — Deactivates private number
- #31#number — Shows your number for one call (e.g., #31#08012345678)
- *#31# — Check if your caller ID is hidden
These codes work on most Nigerian networks.
Still Not Working?
If you’ve tried everything and your number is still hidden:
- Restart your phone
- Double-check your settings
- Make sure your SIM card is properly inserted
- Contact your network provider to remove any caller ID restrictions
Final Word
You don’t have to keep wondering, “Why is my number showing as private?” Just use the simple steps in this guide to fix it once and for all. Whether you're using MTN, Airtel, Glo, or 9mobile, you can start making calls with your number showing again in no time.