MFA & Verification Issues

Fix Microsoft 365 Verification Codes Not Arriving in Nigeria

Chanuka Geekiyanage Oct 9, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users on Nigerian telecommunications networks, specifically 9mobile, are unable to receive SMS verification codes required to authenticate Microsoft accounts.

Fix Microsoft 365 and Teams Verification Codes Not Arriving in Nigeria

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to register for or log into Microsoft services like Outlook, OneDrive, and Microsoft Teams using multi-factor authentication.
Observed behavior: The SMS verification codes are never delivered to the user's mobile device, preventing them from completing the login or registration process.

Before you start

Ensure your mobile device has a strong cellular signal and verify that your carrier plan is currently active before requesting a new authentication code.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Phone-Call Authentication Instead of SMS

Bypass the SMS delivery failure by opting to receive an automated phone call for your verification code.

Due to international SMS routing issues, voice calls are often delivered more reliably than text messages on networks experiencing SMS delays.

Select alternative verification

On the Microsoft login screen where you are prompted for the code, click on 'I didn't receive a code' or 'Use a different verification option'.

Choose the call option

Select 'Call my phone' from the list of available authentication methods.

Answer and authenticate

Answer the incoming call from Microsoft and follow the automated voice instructions (usually pressing the pound key) to complete your login.

Use Phone-Call Authentication Instead of SMS

Best Alternative: Using the phone-call method provides immediate verification without relying on congested SMS gateways.

Solution 2

Check Message Blocking Settings and Wait for Delays

Ensure your phone is not automatically filtering out automated shortcode messages from Microsoft.

Solution 3

Escalate the Issue to Your Carrier or IT Admin

If neither SMS nor phone calls work, you will need to report the routing failure to the appropriate support channels.

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Avoid Login Hassles with WPS Office

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1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
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3. Open your files directly: Launch WPS Office and open your existing .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx files immediately without waiting for SMS verification codes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Microsoft SMS codes delayed or missing on 9mobile in Nigeria?

International SMS delivery relies on complex routing between global gateways and local telecom providers. Codes can be delayed or dropped due to network congestion, local telecom throttling policies, or aggressive spam filters blocking international shortcodes.

Can I access my Microsoft 365 account without a phone number?

Yes, if you configure the Microsoft Authenticator app or add an alternative email address to your account security settings beforehand, you can bypass the SMS requirement entirely.

What should I do if I am completely locked out due to missing SMS codes?

If you are unable to receive codes via text or call and have no alternative verification methods set up, you must contact your organization's IT administrator to reset your MFA. For personal accounts, you will need to go through the Microsoft account recovery process.

Login & Account Issues