Nigeria Calling Codes: How to Call Nigeria from Canada

Staying connected with your family, friends, loved ones and business partners is a Nigerian dream for most Nigerian immigrants living in Canada. One of the quickest and most reliable ways to do that is via calls and even though there are tools like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, Zoom and other internet-based calls, there are times you’ll need to pick up your phone and make a direct phone call especially if internet access is limited at your recipient’s end.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Nigeria calling codes, how to dial Nigerian numbers from Canada, and useful tips for smooth communication.

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Understanding Dialling Codes?

Country dialling codes are unique numerical prefixes assigned to each country, allowing seamless international communication. Think of them like a phone’s passport stamp.Without them, your call won’t cross the border! These specific number combinations help connect you to friends, family, or business contacts around the world. 

Every country has a unique dialling code that must be used when making international calls. The international calling code for Nigeria is +234. This code is used when dialling a Nigerian number from outside the country, including from Canada. The “+” symbol is a placeholder for the international dialling prefix, which varies depending on your phone or carrier.

Step-by-Step: How to Call Nigeria from Canada

Here’s how to correctly dial a Nigerian phone number from Canada:

1. Start with the International Dial-Out Code

From Canada, you’ll need to begin with 011, which is the code used to dial out of the country.

2. Add Nigeria’s Country Code

After the international dial-out code, add 234, which is Nigeria’s country calling code.

3. Dial the Local Nigerian Number

Finally, enter the Nigerian phone number without the leading zero.

Example:

If the Nigerian number is 0803 123 4567, here’s how you dial it from Canada: 011 234 803 123 4567

Understanding Nigerian Phone Numbers

Nigerian phone numbers typically follow this format:

• Mobile numbers: 080, 081, 090, 070, 091 + 7 digits
• Landlines: Area code + local number (less commonly used)

Mobile lines are more common and are associated with telecom providers like MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile.

Calling Nigerian Landlines: Why You Need Area Codes

Landlines are still used for business, government offices, and in some homes across Nigeria. Unlike mobile numbers, landline numbers require state-specific area codes. The area codes for Lagos is 01, Abuja is 09, Kano is 064 and Bayelsa is 089. Click here for a comprehensive list of all the other states. Let’s say you want to call a landline in Lagos (Area Code: 01), and the number is 01 234 5678. Here's how you dial it from Canada:

011 234 1 234 5678

(Note: Remove the first zero from the area code when dialling internationally.)

Pro Tips for Calling Nigeria

• Always double-check the time difference before calling (Nigeria is 5–6 hours ahead of Canada, depending on the time of year).
• If the call doesn’t go through, remove the “+” and try using “011 234...” instead.
• For business or official calls, try calling during Nigerian business hours (typically 8 am–5 pm WAT).

Saving Money on Calls Between Canada and Nigeria

International calls can be expensive but here are a few cost-saving tips:

Use international calling plans: Many Canadian telecom providers (Rogers, Bell, Telus) offer affordable international calling packages.

Buy calling cards: Prepaid calling cards allow you to make cheaper calls to Nigeria. Check Viber, Rebtel or  ​​ Amantel

Consider VoIP services: Apps like Google Voice or Skype offer more stable international calling at lower rates.

In Summary

Calling Nigeria from Canada is simple when you know the correct format: 011 + 234 + Nigerian number (without the leading 0) Whether it’s for a personal chat or an important business meeting, understanding Nigeria calling codes ensures your conversations go through clearly and without hassle. Keep this guide handy—you’ll be glad you did when the need to make that call arises.