Sender ID registration in Nigeria

What a Sender ID is, why messages should use one, and how to prepare for registration before you send your first SMS.

What a Sender ID is

The Sender ID is the name or number a recipient sees as the sender of a text message. An alphanumeric Sender ID shows a brand name such as your company instead of a phone number, so customers recognise the message before they open it.

Alphanumeric Sender IDs are limited to 11 characters.

Why register one

• Messages arrive under your own brand name and are recognised and trusted
• Registered senders are less likely to be filtered or blocked than unregistered traffic
• Operators can tie the traffic to a known business, which supports compliance

Choosing a Sender ID

• Use your real brand name or a recognisable short form of it
• Keep it to 11 characters or fewer
• Avoid names that imitate another company, a bank or a government body
• Use one consistent Sender ID per brand so customers learn to recognise it

What to prepare

Requirements differ by operator and by country, and they change, so confirm the current rules before you apply. In general, expect to be asked for:

• The Sender ID you want to register
• Your company details and documents
• The kind of messages you will send, and sample message text

How Ruach handles registration

The SMS onboarding form collects the details in one place. Our SMS Markets pages document, country by country, the networks, Sender ID rules and compliance requirements, so you know what each operator needs and plan around lead times.

Sender IDs and replies

An alphanumeric Sender ID is one-way: recipients cannot reply to it. If you need replies, such as confirmations or opt-outs, use a dedicated number or a short code for two-way SMS.

Sender ID questions

What is an SMS Sender ID?

It is the name or number shown as the sender of an SMS. An alphanumeric Sender ID displays a brand name of up to 11 characters instead of a phone number.

How long does registration take?

It varies by operator and country. The SMS Markets pages list the lead times for each market, so check them before planning a launch.

Can I use more than one Sender ID?

Yes, for example one per brand. Each one is registered separately.

Can recipients reply to an alphanumeric Sender ID?

No. For replies, use a dedicated number or a short code with two-way SMS.

Related

• SMS: Send under your registered Sender ID over direct routes.
• SMS API guide: How an SMS API works and how to get started.
• SMS Markets: Sender ID rules and compliance for each country.
• Short Code: A number customers can reply to.