In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best apps to block spam calls in Nigeria, how they work, step-by-step instructions for setup, real user benefits, common challenges, and the smartest ways to protect your phone number from nuisance calls.
Spam calls are a daily frustration for mobile users in Nigeria — from telemarketing to fraud attempts disguised as bank alerts or loan offers. Thankfully, technology offers powerful tools to stop most of these interruptions, especially call blocker apps designed to identify and block unwanted calls automatically.
Spam calls have surged in recent years, driven by marketers, automated robocalls, and fraudsters looking to exploit mobile users. These calls:
Interrupt your day and productivity
Waste valuable time
Can be part of scams or phishing attempts
Often use number spoofing (fake numbers)
While network providers like MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile offer some level of spam protection, using dedicated call blocking apps provides stronger filtering and real-time detection — especially in Nigeria, where spam call frequency is high.
This guide dives deep into the best apps available, how they work, and how you can use them effectively.
SEE THIS: How to Block Spam Calls in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)
What You Need to Know Before Installing Call Blocker Apps
Before downloading any app, ensure:
- Your smartphone is running a recent version of Android or iOS
- You have an internet connection (for app setup and spam database updates)
- You grant necessary permissions (call logs, contacts, phone access)
- You download apps from official sources (Google Play Store or Apple App Store)
Keep in mind: no solution blocks 100% of spam calls — but with the right apps and settings, you can reduce unwanted calls massively.
Best Apps to Block Spam Calls in Nigeria
The Best Apps to Block Spam Calls in Nigeria can be downloaded for free from your mobile store. Below are the best apps available for blocking spam calls in Nigeria, with pros, cons, and how to use them:
1. Truecaller — Best Overall Call Blocker App
Truecaller is one of the most popular spam call blockers worldwide — and it works very well in Nigeria. It identifies unknown callers, blocks spam numbers automatically, and shows caller ID for unsaved numbers.
Key Features
- Automatic spam filtering
- Large global spam database
- Caller ID for unknown numbers
- Block specific numbers & categories
- SMS spam detection
How Truecaller Works in Nigeria
Truecaller uses a shared database of phone numbers that users around the world have reported as spam. When you receive a call, Truecaller checks the number against this database — if it’s flagged as spam, it alerts you or blocks it outright.
How to Install & Use
Follow the steps below to install Truecaller with ease.
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store or App Store
Step 2: Search for Truecaller
Step 3: Install and open the app
Step 4: Grant permissions (contacts, phone, SMS)
Step 5: Go to settings → Spam Blocking → Enable
Step 6: Customize filters for unknown calls, private numbers, or specific area codes
Benefits for Nigerian Users
- Works even on slow internet
- Regularly updated spam numbers
- Simple interface for beginners
Downsides
- Requires access to call logs
- Some features are premium
2. Hiya — Reliable and Lightweight Call Blocker
Hiya is another strong contender in call blocking apps, with a focus on simplicity and automatic spam detection.
Key Features
- Automatic spam detection
- Caller ID
- Block unknown and private calls
- Spam score indication
How Hiya Works
Hiya analyzes incoming calls and matches them against its spam database. If a caller is recognized as spam, Hiya either warns you or blocks the call before your phone rings.
How to Install & Use
Step 1: Install from Google Play Store / App Store
Step 2: Open the app and grant permissions
Step 3: Go to settings → Call blocking
Step 4: Turn on Block spam calls and adjust preferences
Benefits
- Lightweight and fast
- Good detection of Nigerian local spam
- Simple controls
Downsides
- Smaller database compared to Truecaller
- Some advanced features require a subscription
3. Call Blocker — Simple & Effective
Call Blocker is a no-frills spam call app ideal for users who want straightforward call blocking without clutter.
Key Features
- Block call lists
- Blacklist & whitelist
- Schedule blocking times
- Block private numbers
How Call Blocker Works
Instead of relying heavily on a shared spam database, Call Blocker focuses on user-managed blocklists. You decide which numbers to block or allow — useful if Nigerian numbers repeat often.
How to Install & Use
Step 1: Download Call Blocker
Step 2: Set up permissions
Step 3: Go to Blocklist
Step 4: Add numbers or patterns (e.g., all unknown or private)
Benefits
- Good for manual blocking
- Works offline
- No account required
Downsides
- No automatic global spam database
- More work to maintain lists
4. Mr. Number — Advanced Blocker & Identification
Mr. Number combines automatic spam detection with manual blocking tools and reporting features.
Key Features
- Intelligent spam detection
- Caller ID
- Block by country code
- Report spam numbers
How Mr. Number Works
This app uses algorithms and community reports to identify and block spam calls. Users can also report new spam numbers to help the network improve.
How to Install & Use
Step 1: Install Mr. Number
Step 2: Open and allow permissions
Step 3: Go to settings → Block & Spam
Step 4: Turn on automatic spam blocking
Benefits
- Community reporting
- Block entire country codes
- Active spam detection
Downsides
- The interface is less intuitive than Truecaller
- Some users report inconsistencies
5. Avast Mobile Security — Best for Security + Call Blocking
Avast Mobile Security is primarily a security app, but it includes a powerful call blocker, especially useful if you also want anti-virus protection.
Key Features
- Spam call blocking
- Virus & malware protection
- App lock and privacy features
How Avast Works
Avast combines spam number detection with security scanning — protecting your phone from threats as well as nuisance calls.
How to Install & Use
Step 1: Install Avast Mobile Security
Step 2: Grant permissions
Step 3: Enable Spam call blocker
Step 4: Adjust settings under Call protection
Benefits
- Multiple security tools in one app
- Trusted security provider
Downsides
- Uses more battery
- Heavy app size
How These Apps Actually Block Calls
While each app works differently, most follow these key steps:
Identify spam using a shared database
Compare incoming numbers to known spam patterns
Alert or block before your phone rings
Allow user customization (block private/unknown numbers)
This means app accuracy improves over time as more users report spam.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide (Applicable to Most Apps)
Step 1: Open Your App Store
Android: Google Play Store
iPhone: Apple App Store
Step 2: Search for the App
Type the name: Truecaller, Hiya, Call Blocker, etc.
Step 3: Install & Open the App
Step 4: Grant Permissions
Most apps need access to:
- Phone calls
- Call logs
- Contacts (optional)
- SMS (if spam SMS blocking is supported)
Step 5: Activate Automatic Spam Blocking
Go to app settings and turn on:
- Block spam calls
- Block unknown numbers
- Block private callers
Step 6: Customize Blocking Rules
You can also:
- Add numbers to blacklist
- Add trusted contacts to whitelist
- Set schedules (block at night)
Step 7: Update App Regularly
Spam databases are updated frequently — so keep your app updated.
Tips for Better Spam Protection in Nigeria
- Activate Do Not Disturb (DND) through your telecom operator
- Avoid sharing your number publicly
- Do not answer unknown numbers
- Report spam numbers within the app
- Use multiple blocking layers (phone settings + app + network)
These layers together dramatically reduce the number of nuisance calls you receive.
Common Problems Users Face — And How to Fix Them
Problem #1: Spam Still Gets Through
Enable multiple apps or add numbers to the manual blacklist.
Problem #2: App Blocks Important Calls
Add key contacts to the whitelist inside the app.
Problem #3: App Uses Too Much Battery
Turn off unnecessary features (e.g., app analytics, SMS scanning).
Problem #4: Spam Numbers Change Frequently
Update the app regularly and report new spam numbers.
Problem #5: App Asks for Too Many Permissions
Only grant permissions necessary for call blocking — many features are optional.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are these apps free to use in Nigeria?
Most offer a free version with basic spam blocking; premium accounts unlock advanced features.
- Will blocking apps stop all spam calls?
No app blocks 100%, but combined with phone settings, they can block most.
- Do apps affect battery life?
Some security apps may use more battery than lightweight blockers.
- Can I trust call blocker apps with my data?
Stick to trusted apps and read privacy policies — avoid unknown or suspicious apps.
- Do I still need DND after installing apps?
Yes — DND adds another layer of protection and reduces promotional calls.
Conclusion
Spam calls are one of the biggest annoyances for mobile users in Nigeria today. But with the right tools — especially powerful call blocker apps like Truecaller, Hiya, Call Blocker, Mr. Number, and Avast Mobile Security — you can take control of your phone and ditch unwanted interruptions.
By installing and customizing these apps, you significantly reduce spam calls and protect yourself from potential fraud.
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