THE SHORT VERSION / Best SIM card for Nigeria and Ghana
The easiest way to stay connected during Detty December is an eSIM bought before you fly, so you have data the moment you land. For longer stays and local calls, get a local SIM: MTN, Airtel or Glo in Nigeria, and MTN, Telecel or AT in Ghana. Registration requires your passport.
- Easiest
- eSIM before you fly
- Nigeria networks
- MTN, Airtel, Glo
- Ghana networks
- MTN, Telecel, AT
- Registration
- Passport
- Big events
- Networks congest
- Tip
- Download offline
eSIM vs local SIM
| eSIM | Local SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Buy online before you fly | Buy in country, register with passport |
| Works on landing | Yes | After purchase and registration |
| Local number | Usually data only | Yes |
| Cost | Higher per GB | Cheapest data |
| Best for | Short trips, convenience | Longer stays, local calls and payments |
Many travellers use both: an eSIM for landing day, then a local SIM for cheaper data.
Nigeria: networks and SIM rules
- Main networks: MTN, Airtel and Glo.
- Registration: SIMs must be registered. Visitors register with a passport at an official network store.
- Coverage: MTN and Airtel are strong in Lagos. Coverage varies in rural areas.
- Mobile money: less central than in Ghana. Most payments are bank transfer.
Ghana: networks and SIM rules
- Main networks: MTN, Telecel (formerly Vodafone Ghana) and AT (formerly AirtelTigo).
- Registration: visitors register with a passport at an official store.
- Mobile money: MTN MoMo is widely used for payments. A local SIM makes MoMo possible. See the money guide.
How to buy a local SIM
- Go to an official network store or the airport kiosk.
- Bring your passport for registration.
- Buy a data bundle that fits your stay.
- Check your phone is unlocked before you travel.
Staying connected at concerts and festivals
Mobile networks congest at big events. Before you go:
- Save tickets offline.
- Download maps and playlists.
- Agree a meeting point with friends.
- Carry a power bank.
- Use Wi-Fi calling at your accommodation.
THE PRACTICAL DETAILS
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Frequently asked questions
Should I get an eSIM or a local SIM for Nigeria or Ghana?
An eSIM is easiest for short trips because it works as soon as you land. A local SIM gives cheaper data and a local number for longer stays.
What are the main mobile networks in Ghana?
MTN, Telecel (formerly Vodafone Ghana) and AT (formerly AirtelTigo).
Do I need a passport to buy a SIM in Nigeria?
Yes. SIMs in Nigeria must be registered, and visitors use their passport at an official network store.
