In this article, we will walk you through simple, step‑by‑step methods to block spam calls in Nigeria — from using built‑in phone features to reporting nuisance numbers. We’ll also discuss common problems you may encounter and how to solve them, along with frequently asked questions that many Nigerian users have about stopping unwanted calls.
Every Nigerian mobile user has experienced the frustration of unwanted phone calls — whether it’s incessant telemarketing, automated robocalls, or suspicious numbers calling repeatedly at odd hours. These calls waste time, interrupt important moments, and can even be used for fraudulent activities.
With the rapid growth of mobile usage in Nigeria, spam calls have become a top complaint among smartphone and feature phone users alike. Fortunately, there are practical ways to tackle this problem.
While mobile operators and smartphone makers provide tools to block unwanted calls, many Nigerians are still unsure how to use them. There’s also confusion over whether it’s possible to block all spam calls at once or if users must manually block each number. What adds to the complexity is the fact that callers often spoof numbers, making blocking even more challenging. Yet, with the right steps and understanding, you can significantly reduce spam interruptions.
READ THIS: How to Protect Your Online Accounts from Hackers
Requirements Before You Start
Before you begin blocking calls, make sure you have:
Active mobile network connection.
Your latest phone operating system has been installed.
Optional: Popular call‑blocking apps downloaded (like Truecaller).
Accurate caller ID or a list of numbers to block.
These requirements will help you follow the steps below easily.
How to Block Spam Calls in Nigeria
Below are proven steps tailored to both Android and iPhone users. If you’re using a feature phone (basic phone), methods vary slightly and will be explained too.
1. Use Your Phone’s Built‑In Blocking Feature
Most modern phones include built‑in call blocking tools.
For Android Phones
Open the Phone app (where your calls are logged).
Tap the number you want to block.
Tap Details or More options (three dots).
Select the block number.
Confirm to add it to your blocked list.
You can also long‑press a call log entry and select Block.
For iPhones
Go to the Phone app.
Tap the number you want to block.
Scroll to the bottom and tap Block this Caller.
Confirm your choice.
Once blocked, calls from that number won’t ring your phone or leave voicemails.
2. Silence Unknown Callers
If you get many nuisance calls from unknown numbers, both Android and iPhone offer a feature to silence them.
Android
Settings → Calls → Block unknown callers
This puts all unknown numbers straight to voicemail.
iPhone
Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers
Calls from numbers not in your contacts are silenced and sent to voicemail.
3. Use Third‑Party Call Blocking Apps
These apps provide stronger protection by identifying spam calls in real time.
Best Apps for Nigeria
- Truecaller
- Hiya
- Call Blocker
- Mr. Number
How to use (generally):
Open the Google Play Store or App Store.
Search and install the app (e.g., Truecaller).
Open the app and grant call permission.
Enable “Block Spam & Robocalls.
Set preferences (block private, unknown, or specific numbers).
These apps often have regularly updated spam databases, so new spam numbers can be recognized before they reach you.
4. Report Spam Numbers to Your Network Operator
Major Nigerian networks allow you to report nuisance calls.
- MTN Nigeria
Send a message to 2442 or use MTN customer support to report spam calls.
- Airtel Nigeria
Use *121# or report via WhatsApp support.
- Glo Nigeria
Report by contacting customer care or visiting a Glo outlet.
- 9mobile
Dial *200# or contact customer service.
Reporting spam numbers helps your operator block them at the network level.
5. Register with Do Not Disturb (DND) Services
Some mobile operators and regulators in Nigeria offer Do Not Disturb (DND) options that reduce marketing calls.
How to Activate
For some networks, dial specific shortcodes or use SMS with keywords like DND.
Contact your operator’s customer support to enable DND on your line.
This stops legitimate marketing calls from operators and trusted partners.
6. Use Network‑Level Blocking Tools
Some operators offer network tools that automatically block known spam and fraud numbers. This prevents spam calls from ever reaching your phone.
Contact your network’s customer care and ask: “How do I activate spam call blocking on my line?” They will guide you to enable the service.
7. Block International Spam Calls
Spam often comes from international numbers, too. For this:
Go to your Phone settings.
Find Call Blocking & Identification.
Enable Block international calls or similar.
This is helpful if you rarely receive legitimate international calls.
8. Avoid Sharing Your Number Publicly
Half of spam calls come because numbers are shared on websites, social media, or public forms.
Best Practices:
- Don’t post your number online.
- Share privately only with trusted contacts.
- Use a secondary number for public submissions.
This reduces the chances of your number being harvested by spammers.
9. Enable Caller ID & Spam Protection
Many phones have built‑in Caller ID and spam protection features.
Android
Settings → Caller ID & Spam → Turn ON
This flags suspected spam calls.
iPhone (with iOS 13+)
Settings → Phone → Silence Unknown Callers → ON
Apple and Android use large databases to recognize and flag spam numbers.
10. Block and Report via WhatsApp
Often, spam calls come through WhatsApp too.
Open WhatsApp.
Open chat with the spam number.
Tap the number → Block → Report.
This stops messages and calls from that WhatsApp account.
Common Problems & Solutions
Even after blocking calls, you might still face challenges. Here are common issues and how to fix them:
Problem 1: Spam Calls Still Get Through
Solution:
- Make sure blocking is activated correctly.
- Enable silence for unknown callers.
- Use third‑party apps with built‑in spam lists like Truecaller.
Tip: Some spam calls spoof numbers that appear familiar, so always be cautious.
Problem 2: Blocking Doesn’t Stop All Spam
Solution:
- Update your phone OS and call blocker apps.
- Add repeated spam numbers manually to the block list.
- Combine phone blocking + carrier tools + apps.
Blocking only works well when multiple tools are used together.
Problem 3: Wrong Numbers Are Blocked
Solution:
- Review your blocked list if you mistakenly block someone.
- Go to settings → Blocked numbers and remove as needed.
Most phones let you manage blocked lists easily.
Problem 4: Legitimate Unknown Calls Get Silenced
Solution:
- Keep important contacts saved on your phone.
- Turn off silence, unknown if you expect calls from new people.
Balancing convenience with safety is key.
Problem 5: The Network Doesn’t Respond to Reports
Solution:
- Visit a customer care center.
- Send proof of repeat spam.
- Use social media support channels if available.
Persistence often leads to action by the operator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I block spam calls permanently in Nigeria?
You can block most spam calls permanently by using blocking tools, carrier services, and apps together. But new spam numbers appear often, so some may still get through.
- Does my network operator block spam calls for me?
Some operators offer spam blocking services. You may need to activate them via USSD code or through customer support.
- Will blocking numbers reduce internet‑related spam?
Blocking voice calls doesn’t stop internet spam (SMS or social media). You need separate filters or app tools for those.
- Is Truecaller safe to use in Nigeria?
Yes, but make sure to read the privacy terms. Truecaller identifies callers using community‑reported data.
- What happens when I block a number?
Blocked numbers can’t call or text you. They may still leave voicemail depending on your phone settings.
- Do I need to block both SMS and calls?
Yes. Some nuisance numbers send SMS first. Use your phone’s SMS blocking or filtering tools.
- Can international spam be stopped?
You can reduce it by blocking international calls and using apps that detect international spam.
- Will changing my number stop spam calls?
It may help temporarily, but if you share the number publicly again, spam could resume.
- Does Do Not Disturb (DND) really work?
DND can reduce marketing calls, but may not stop all fraudulent numbers. Pair it with blocking features for the best results.
- How often should I update my blocking apps?
Update them regularly for better protection, ideally weekly.
Conclusion
Spam calls are a real problem for mobile users in Nigeria, but you don’t have to tolerate them. Whether you use built‑in phone settings, third‑party apps, network services, or best practices like avoiding public sharing of your number, there are effective ways to block and reduce these calls.
By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to:
- Block individual spam numbers
- Reduce unwanted calls automatically
- Report nuisance callers to networks
- Protect your privacy and peace of mind
Take action today — start blocking spam calls and enjoy a quieter, safer mobile experience in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, share this method to Block Spam Calls in Nigeria on your social media platforms so that you can learn from it. Also, use the comment box below for any questions on this article, and we’ll be here to respond to you.