Bank Swift Codes

Nigerian Bank Swift Codes- List of Swift Codes for Banks in Nigeria

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International banking has become part of everyday life for many Nigerians. Whether you are receiving money from abroad, paying school fees overseas, or making international business transactions, one thing you will always need is a bank Swift code.

If you have ever been asked to provide a Swift code and felt confused, you are not alone. Many people mix up Swift codes with sort codes or account numbers.

This blog post explains everything you need to know about Nigerian bank Swift codes and provides a clear list of Swift codes for banks in Nigeria.

By the end of this guide, you will understand what Swift codes are, how they work, and how to find the correct one for any Nigerian bank.

What Is a SWIFT Code?

A SWIFT code, also known as a BIC (Bank Identifier Code), is a unique identification code used to recognize banks during international money transfers. It helps foreign banks know exactly where to send funds without confusion.

Unlike local bank details such as account numbers or sort codes, SWIFT codes work on a global banking network managed by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT).

Structure of a Swift Code

A typical Swift code contains 8 or 11 characters. Each part has a specific meaning:

  • The first 4 letters represent the bank name
  • The next 2 letters represent the country code
  • The following 2 letters or numbers represent the bank location
  • The last 3 characters (optional) represent a specific branch

For example:

AAAA NG LA XXX

  • AAAA – Bank code
  • NG – Nigeria country code
  • LA – Location code
  • XXX – Branch code (optional)

Understanding this structure helps you verify whether a Swift code is correct.

List of Swift Codes for Banks in Nigeria

Below is an updated list of Swift codes for major commercial banks operating in Nigeria.

Access Bank Plc

  • Swift Code: ABNGNGLA

Citibank Nigeria Limited

  • Swift Code: CITINGLA

Ecobank Nigeria

  • Swift Code: ECOCNGLA

Fidelity Bank Plc

  • Swift Code: FIDTNGLA

First Bank of Nigeria Limited

  • Swift Code: FBNINGLA

First City Monument Bank (FCMB)

  • Swift Code: FCMBNGLA

Globus Bank

  • Swift Code: GLOUNGLA

Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank)

  • Swift Code: GTBINGLA

Heritage Bank

  • Swift Code: HBCLNGLA

Keystone Bank

  • Swift Code: PLNINGLA

Polaris Bank

  • Swift Code: PRDTNGLA

Stanbic IBTC Bank

  • Swift Code: SBICNGLX

Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria

  • Swift Code: SCBLNGLA

Sterling Bank Plc

  • Swift Code: NAMENGLA

SunTrust Bank Nigeria

  • Swift Code: SUTGNGLA

Union Bank of Nigeria

  • Swift Code: UBNINGLA

United Bank for Africa (UBA)

  • Swift Code: UNAFNGLA

Unity Bank Plc

  • Swift Code: ICITNGLA

Wema Bank

  • Swift Code: WEMANGLA

Zenith Bank Plc

  • Swift Code: ZEIBNGLA

Why Do You Need a Swift Code in Nigeria?

You need a Swift code in Nigeria for several important reasons:

  • To receive money from family or business partners abroad
  • To send funds to foreign banks
  • To make international online payments
  • To process school fees payments to overseas institutions
  • To complete foreign business transactions

Most international transfer platforms such as Western Union, MoneyGram, PayPal, Wise, and bank wire transfers rely on Swift codes to complete transactions securely.

How To Use a Nigerian Bank Swift Code

Using a Swift code is very simple. Follow these steps when making or receiving an international transfer:

  1. Confirm the correct Swift code of your bank
  2. Provide your full bank account name
  3. Enter your account number
  4. Add your bank’s address if required
  5. Include the Swift code in the transfer form
  6. Double-check all details before submitting

How To Find Your Bank’s Swift Code

If you are not sure of your bank’s Swift code, you can easily find it through any of the following methods:

  • Check your bank’s official website
  • Contact customer care
  • Visit a bank branch
  • Check your bank statement
  • Use this blog post as a quick reference

Most banks also print their Swift codes on official documents used for international transfers.

Conclusion

Swift codes play a vital role in global banking, especially in a country like Nigeria where international transactions are common. Whether you are a student, freelancer, business owner, or salary earner, knowing your bank’s Swift code is very important.

This guide has provided a complete and updated list of Nigerian bank Swift codes to help you carry out international transfers smoothly and confidently. Always remember to verify details directly with your bank before completing any transaction.

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