A bank sort code is a short numeric identifier used to locate a specific bank and branch. In Nigeria, a typical sort code identifies the bank, the region or zone, and the exact branch — allowing funds and payment messages to be routed accurately between financial institutions.

Sort codes are essential for timely and accurate transfers: payroll, bill payments, interbank transfers, and many automated payment systems rely on them to avoid misrouting and delays.

Nigerian sort codes commonly use 9 digits. Conceptually they break down into three groups:

• Bank identifier (first 3 digits) — identifies the financial institution.
• Region code (middle 3 digits) — points to the city or zone.
• Branch identifier (last 3 digits) — specifies the individual branch.

Note: Some banks use centralized or shorter variants — always check the bank’s official documentation for definitive formats.

• Accurate routing: Ensures electronic payments reach the right branch.
• Faster processing: Automated systems use sort codes to speed up settlements.
• Fraud reduction: Validates account + branch combinations.
• Audit trails: Create traceable records for compliance and reconciliation.

For businesses, payroll teams and finance departments, proper sort codes prevent costly returns and delays.

• Bank statements — paper or PDF copies often include branch identifiers.
• Bank website or mobile app — the most reliable public source.
• Branch staff or customer support — call or visit to confirm official codes.
• Official bank pages on this site — use them as a quick reference and cross-check with the bank.

Never rely on unverified third-party lists for large or time-sensitive transfers.

Sort codes are for domestic routing (local branches). SWIFT/BIC codes — often used with IBANs — identify banks globally for international transfers. For cross-border payments you usually supply the recipient bank’s SWIFT/BIC and might also provide a local sort code for destination routing.

• Use sort code: Domestic/local transfers.
• Use SWIFT/BIC: Cross-border/international transfers.

• Typing a single digit wrong — a single mistake can route or return payments.
• Using outdated or unofficial lists — banks change codes after mergers or reorganizations.
• Confusing head office codes with local branch codes — always confirm the target branch.

1. Check the bank’s official website or mobile app.
2. Call the bank’s official customer care and confirm the branch sort code.
3. Test with a small transfer before sending large sums.

If a payment fails or is returned, contact both banks immediately so they can trace and correct routing errors quickly.