How to Generate JAMB Profile Code with NIN: The 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
How to Generate JAMB Profile Code with NIN: The 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
Ever stared at your phone screen, waiting for a text message that just refuses to come in? It’s frustrating, especially when your entire university admission depends on it.
To start your UTME registration, you absolutely need to know how to Generate JAMB Profile Code with NIN. Without this 10-digit code, you can’t buy the e-PIN, and you definitely can’t enter the CBT center.
I’ve seen students panic because they left this till the last minute. The network gets congested, or they realize their NIN has an issue.
Don’t be that student.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact steps to get your profile code generated in less than two minutes.
The Golden Rule: Use Your Own Sim Card
Before you even touch your keypad, listen to this.
You must use a SIM card that is registered in your name (or at least one you have permanent access to). This number becomes your unique identity with JAMB forever.
Don’t use your dad’s number. Don’t use your specialized “data SIM.” Use the main line you keep in your phone every day. All future messages from JAMB will come here.
Method 1: The USSD/SMS Method (Fastest Way)
This is the standard method that works for 90% of candidates.
Here is the simple format:
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Open the SMS app on your phone.
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Type the word NIN, leave a space, then type your 11-digit NIN number.
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It should look like this: NIN 00123456789.
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Send this message to 55019 or 66019.
That’s it.
Make sure there are no spaces between the numbers in your NIN. It’s just “NIN” (space) “Number”.
After a few seconds (or minutes, depending on the network), you should receive a text message on that same phone. This message will contain your 10-digit Profile Code and your registered name.
Important Note: You need airtime for this. It costs N50.
If you have zero balance, the message won’t go through. And please, don’t rely on “borrow me credit” or bonus airtime. Load actual recharge card of at least N100 just to be safe.
What If It Fails? (Troubleshooting)
Sometimes, technology messes up.
You send the message, they deduct your N50, and you get… silence. Or worse, an error message saying “Invalid NIN.”
This is where knowing how to Generate JAMB Profile Code with NIN involves a bit of problem-solving.
First, check that the name on your NIN matches exactly what you think it is. If there is a spelling error in the NIMC database, JAMB might reject it. You can verify your NIN details on the official NIMC website.
If you keep getting error messages, don’t just keep spending N50.
I wrote a detailed guide on how to fix profile code and NIN errors fast. Check that out if you are stuck in an error loop.
Common Mistakes That Will Frustrate You
I’ve helped enough students with this to notice a pattern. Most issues come from three simple mistakes.
1. Using a Postpaid or “Special” SIM Some corporate lines or special data bundles block shortcodes like 55019. If you aren’t getting a reply, try swapping the SIM to a “nokia torchlight” phone or check your message center settings.
2. Linking the Wrong Number Once you use a phone number to generate a profile code for a specific NIN, that number is locked to that NIN. You cannot use your phone number to generate a code for your younger brother.
3. Waiting for the Deadline The networks are busiest on the day registration closes. As we discussed in the timeline for the JAMB registration starting date for 2026, early registration saves you a lot of headache.
How to Retrieve a Lost Profile Code
Maybe you generated the code last week, but you accidentally deleted the text message.
Don’t panic. You don’t need to pay for a new form or go to the NIMC office.
To retrieve it, simply send RESEND to 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number you used initially.
JAMB will resend your profile code to you as a text message.
Moving Forward
Once you have that 10-digit code, write it down. Keep it safe.
You will need it to buy your e-PIN. Speaking of costs, make sure you are budgeting correctly. You should check the official cost breakdown for the 2026 JAMB form so you don’t get scammed or overcharged at the cyber cafe.
Getting your profile code is the first victory.
It might seem small, but getting this right sets the tone for your whole exam prep. If you have issues, contact JAMB Support immediately rather than waiting.
Now, go pick up your phone and get that code generated. Good luck!
