How Nigerians can access FG’s N50,000 monthly relief fund through OPay

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a N50,000 monthly cash relief programme aimed at providing essential assistance to vulnerable citizens. OPay and four other digital financial service providers have been enlisted to facilitate payments to eligible beneficiaries. This initiative, called the National Emergency Relief and Stabilisation Intervention (NERSI), targets low-income households struggling with the rising cost of living and economic challenges.

NERSI beneficiaries will be identified using verified national identity records and the National Social Register, based on poverty and vulnerability criteria. No application or registration process is required, making it a straightforward relief measure. Eligible Nigerians will receive payments in phases, meaning that they may not be notified of their selection simultaneously.

OPay users who have been chosen can verify their status through the OPay mobile application or by dialing *955*20# using the phone number linked to their account. Checking the app's homepage or the *955*20# USSD code will also confirm eligibility.

However, having an OPay account alone does not guarantee participation. The selection process is solely managed by the Federal Government. For OPay customers, the process involves accepting the support once a notification appears in the app or on their screen. Consent is required before payments are made to their mobile wallet, a service that does not necessitate a smartphone or internet connection. Beneficiaries can still access the N50,000 through the designated USSD code.

The programme officially began on October 30, 2026. Selected recipients will receive text messages requesting their consent before the funds are transferred. Despite the relief programme's introduction, concerns regarding potential fraud targeting Nigerians seeking access to the funds have arisen. To safeguard against such risks, Nigerians are urged to avoid providing personal information to unverified sources and to rely solely on the official channels provided by the Federal Government.

The relief programme remains free and is not subject to any guarantees of selection or accelerated payments.