Moniepoint launches USSD service for Nigerians to claim N50,000 relief under NERSI programme

The Federal Government of Nigeria has begun disbursing N50,000 cash assistance to vulnerable households under the National Emergency Relief and Stabilisation Intervention (NERSI). Moniepoint Microfinance Bank, one of the approved payment providers, announced on 5 November 2026 that customers can now use a dedicated USSD code to check eligibility and receive the funds directly into their Moniepoint accounts.

Customers are instructed to dial *5573*27# from the mobile number registered with Moniepoint and follow on‑screen prompts. Those confirmed as beneficiaries are guided through a final step to accept the payment, after which the amount is credited to their Moniepoint account at no extra cost. The bank emphasised that the service requires no additional documentation, fees, or third‑party involvement.

Background

The NERSI programme is overseen by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and was launched on 30 October 2026. Its purpose is to provide direct financial relief to poor and vulnerable Nigerians facing rising living costs and inflation. Beneficiary selection relies on verified national identity records and the National Social Register, with the government stating that individuals cannot apply independently or pay to be included.

Moniepoint was named among the payment providers selected to facilitate the disbursement. Babatunde Olofin, Managing Director and CEO of Moniepoint, said the bank was pleased to support the initiative and would use its technology and infrastructure to make the process seamless and secure. The programme is being rolled out in phases across the six geopolitical zones, meaning not all eligible customers receive notifications simultaneously.

Why it matters

The NERSI cash support targets households identified as vulnerable, aiming to cushion the impact of economic pressures. By enabling digital disbursement through Moniepoint, the government seeks to reduce the need for physical bank visits and minimise delays. Eligible beneficiaries receive the full N50,000 directly into their digital wallets, which can be used for essential needs.

Both Moniepoint and the Ministry warned of fraudsters attempting to solicit money or personal information. The USSD channel and the Moniepoint app are presented as the official, fee‑free avenues for verification and receipt of funds. The intervention forms part of a broader government effort to provide targeted assistance rather than blanket payments to all account holders.

What happens next

The disbursement will continue in phases, with Moniepoint advising customers to use only the official USSD code *5573*27# to check eligibility. The bank will guide confirmed beneficiaries through the acceptance process, after which the funds will be credited instantly. The Ministry has indicated that further phases will be rolled out until all selected households have received their payments, though no specific timeline beyond the ongoing rollout was provided.