How to Share Data on MTN (Latest Codes, App & SME Methods)

Trying to share data on MTN and it’s not working?

You’re not alone. MTN recently changed its codes and limits, leaving many users confused. Whether you’re trying to send 500MB to a friend, buy a bundle for someone, or remove a number you added by mistake, you need the latest info to avoid failed transfers.

This guide walks you through every official MTN data-sharing method—updated for 2024. You’ll learn:

• The new USSD and SMS codes
• How to use the MyMTN App
• How to request, automate, and manage sharing
• SME vs personal sharing (and the difference)
• What to do if your transfer fails

Let’s get started.

1. New MTN Data Sharing Code (Updated for 2025)

MTN has replaced the old *131# sharing code. Here’s what works now:

a. USSD Code Method

• Dial: *312*PhoneNumber*DataAmount#
  Example: *312*08031234567*100# to send 100MB

b. SMS Method

• Send: Transfer 08031234567 100 to 312

You’ll get a confirmation once the data is sent.

Note:

• Only works MTN-to-MTN
• Shared data is deducted from your main bundle
• Minimum: 50MB
• Maximum you can send per day: 5GB

2. How to Share Data Using the MyMTN App

If you prefer a more visual method:

Steps:

1. Download the MyMTN App from the Play Store or App Store
2. Log in with your MTN number
3. Tap ‘Share’, then select ‘Data Share’
4. Enter the number and amount
5. Confirm and send

You can also use ‘Gift Data’ to buy a bundle for someone directly.

3. Buy Data for a Friend (Gift Option)

Instead of sharing your own bundle, you can buy a new one for someone.

How to use it:

• Dial: *312*BundleActivationCode*PhoneNumber#
  Example: *312*106*08031234567# to buy 1GB for a friend

You’ll need airtime to complete this method since it deducts from your balance.

4. Request Data from a Friend

Can’t afford a bundle right now? You can request data too.

How to request:

• Dial: *3212# or *3128#
• Select Option 3: Request Data
• Enter the donor’s MTN number

They’ll get a prompt asking them to send data to your line.

5. View and Manage Data Requests

If you’ve received requests or want to check your beneficiaries:

To view pending requests:

• Dial: *3128#
• Select Option 4: View Requests

6. Automate Data Sharing to Someone

Want to send data regularly to a specific number (e.g., your kids or staff)?

How to set up automation:

• Dial: *3128# or *3212#
• Select Option 5: Automate Sharing
• Enter the number and set how often to send

You can turn this off anytime from the same menu.

7. How to Unshare a Number

If you no longer want to share data with someone:

a. USSD Method:

• Dial *3128#
• Select “Remove Beneficiary”

b. SMS Method:

• Text: Remove 08031234567 to 312

This removes them from your data-sharing list.

8. SME Data Sharing (Business Users Only)

SME sharing is different and designed for business owners or resellers. You’ll need an MTN SME line.

Steps:

• Dial: *461#
• Buy a bulk SME bundle
• Select “Share Data”
• Enter recipient number and amount

Check SME balance: *461*7*1#

This is not available to regular MTN prepaid users.

9. Quick Reference: MTN Data Codes (2025)

Common Issues and Fixes

Transfer not working?

• Make sure you’re using the correct new codes (*312#, not *131#)
• Only regular data plans can be shared—not bonus, night, or social bundles
• Make sure the recipient uses an MTN line
• You cannot send more than 5GB total per day

FAQ

1. Can I share MTN data with Airtel or Glo users?

No. MTN data sharing only works between MTN lines.

2. Can I share bonus or night plan data?

No. Only standard bundles are eligible for sharing.

3. What’s the minimum and maximum I can transfer?

Minimum: 50MB
Maximum: 5GB per day

4. Is SME data the same as normal sharing?

No. SME is a separate data plan meant for resellers and business owners.

5. Can I automate data transfers?

Yes. Use *3212# or *3128# → Option 5 to schedule recurring data sharing.

Conclusion

MTN’s new data sharing system is faster, more flexible, and packed with options—but only if you know how to use it right.

With the updated USSD code (*312#), SMS line (312), and automation tools, you can now send data, gift bundles, remove users, or set up recurring shares from one place. Whether you’re sharing 100MB or 5GB, everything now runs through verified channels supported by MTN.

Use this guide to make your transfers smoother, safer, and smarter—especially now that the old *131# code no longer works.