If you’ve ever tried to open a bank account in Nigeria, you know the stress that comes with meeting the requirements. One of the most common problems people face is this: “I don’t have a NEPA bill!” (By the way, “NEPA bill” is just what many Nigerians still call electricity bills — whether from PHCN, AEDC, IBEDC, or others.)
But guess what? If you don’t have a NEPA bill, it doesn’t mean you can’t open a bank account. There are other utility bills you can use — as long as they carry your name and current address.
Why Do Banks Ask for a Utility Bill?
Banks want to verify your address. That’s why they ask for a recent utility bill — usually not older than three months. It helps confirm that you actually live where you say you live. It’s a security and documentation measure that’s required by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
So, What If You Don’t Have a NEPA Bill?
Not everyone receives or pays electricity bills directly. Maybe you live in a family house, a shared apartment, or your landlord handles the bills. That’s common. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.
Here are other utility bills you can use instead:
1. Water Bill
If you’re lucky to live in an area where water bills are issued (especially by state water boards), and your name and address are on it, you can use it. Some banks accept this just like they accept electricity bills.
2. Waste/Refuse Collection Bill
In many cities, there’s a government agency or private company responsible for waste disposal. They usually issue monthly or quarterly bills. If your name and address are clearly stated, that can work.
3. Cable TV Subscription Bill
Do you have a DSTV, GOTV, or Startimes subscription? Some banks accept your recent payment receipt — especially if it includes your name and home address. You can print this from your online account or app.
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4. Internet Subscription Bill
If you use home internet from providers like Spectranet, Smile, FibreOne, or others — and the bill has your name and address — that’s useful. Some people use this especially when they don’t get any other physical bills.
5. Land Use Charge or Tenancy Agreement
This one may not be a utility bill, but in some cases, if you really don’t have any utility bill, banks may accept a recent Land Use Charge receipt or a signed tenancy agreement as proof of address. It depends on the bank and the branch manager’s discretion.
What If the Utility Bill Is Not in Your Name?
This is common. Maybe the bill is in your father’s name, your landlord’s, or your elder sibling’s. In this case, you can still try, but you’ll need to write a letter of explanation or bring additional documents like:
- A tenancy agreement that links you to the address.
- A letter from the person whose name is on the bill confirming you live with them.
- An affidavit stating your current address.
Some banks may allow this, especially if you’re opening a Tier 2 account (which has lower transaction limits).
Bonus Tip: Use Your Voter’s Card or NIN Slip
Some banks now accept NIN slips or Permanent Voter’s Cards as part of address confirmation, especially if they contain your current address and you’re opening a basic savings account. But this also depends on the bank.
