How to Receive Money from Abroad in Nigeria: Complete Guide to MoneyGram (2026)

Last updated: May 2026 · 12 min read

Let me share something that happened to me recently.

My phone beeped. A message from my client in Texas. "David, I have sent the money. Please go check."

I checked the reference number twice. Then I checked it again. I have learned my lesson the hard way.

A few years ago, I rushed to an agent without double-checking. The agent typed a zero instead of the letter O. My money was sitting in the system, but nobody could find it.

That was my fault, not MoneyGram's problem.

Today, MoneyGram is one of the most reliable ways to receive money from abroad in Nigeria. Thousands of people use it daily without issues. I use it regularly. It works.

This guide will show you exactly how to use MoneyGram safely, avoid common mistakes, and get the best exchange rates.

– How to Receive Money Through MoneyGram (Step by Step)

Follow these steps carefully. I learned these through experience.

First – Get the reference number

Your sender will provide a unique reference number. Write it down. Take a screenshot. Double-check every digit. This is where I made my mistake.

Second – Find an agent

MoneyGram agents are inside major banks like GTBank, UBA, and First Bank. You will also find standalone agents in cities across Nigeria. For people in smaller towns, check the nearest bank. Many offer MoneyGram services.

Third – Bring your ID

Any government-issued ID works. International passport, driver's license, voter's card, or national ID. Make sure the name on your ID matches the name the sender used.

Fourth – Complete the form

Fill in your full name (exactly as it appears on your ID), your phone number, the reference number, and the sender's name.

Fifth – Collect your money

The agent will count the cash in front of you. Count it again yourself. Do not rush.

Sixth – Pay the fee

MoneyGram charges a small fee. The amount depends on how much you receive. Always ask for the fee before completing the transaction.

If you are saving up for a big goal like buying a phone or furniture, receiving money through MoneyGram can help you reach your target faster. But remember to teach yourself and your family about money so the funds do not disappear quickly.

For more personal finance education, visit our Financial Freedom Meaning article and Financial Peace Dave Ramsey summary.

– MoneyGram vs. Other Money Transfer Services

Here is how MoneyGram compares to alternatives popular in Nigeria.

MoneyGram vs. Western Union

Western Union has more agent locations. MoneyGram is often slightly cheaper for smaller amounts. Both are reliable. I use whichever offers the better rate on the day I receive.

MoneyGram vs. Lemfi

Lemfi is digital-only. You need a bank account to use it. The rates are often better, but you cannot pick up cash instantly. MoneyGram wins for speed and accessibility.

MoneyGram vs. Chipper Cash

Chipper is great for smaller amounts. Fees are very low. But you need a smartphone and a bank account. MoneyGram works for everyone, even without a phone.

According to Techpoint Africa, digital money transfer services are growing fast in Nigeria, but cash pickup services like MoneyGram still dominate for rural areas.

If you are building a side hustle in Nigeria, you may receive payments through various methods. Understanding your options saves you money.

– Common Mistakes to Avoid (I Made Most of These)

Let me save you from my errors.

Mistake one: Not double-checking the reference number

This is how I lost my money temporarily. Check every digit. Compare letters and numbers carefully. Zero is not the same as the letter O.

Mistake two: Rushing to the first agent

Different agents have different fees and rates. Call three agents before you go. Save yourself money.

Mistake three: Forgetting your ID

No ID means no money. Keep your ID in your wallet at all times.

Mistake four: Not counting the cash

Count the money before you leave the counter. Mistakes happen. Protect yourself.

Mistake five: Collecting on weekends

Rates are worse. Agents are busier. Wait until Monday if you can.

Mistake six: Not asking about fees upfront

Some agents add hidden charges. Ask clearly: "How much will I pay in total?" before you start the process.

If you avoid these mistakes, your MoneyGram experience will be smooth.

For more practical advice, explore our Side Hustle Stack and Low Income Budget Example articles.

– Alternatives to MoneyGram for Receiving Money in Nigeria

Here are other options worth considering.

Lemfi

Digital only. Better exchange rates. Fast transfers. You need a bank account and a smartphone.

Chipper Cash

Send and receive from the US, UK, Ghana, and Kenya. No fees for Chipper to Chipper transfers. Very popular for small amounts.

Sendwave

Owned by the same company as WorldRemit. Specifically designed for African countries. Good customer service.

Western Union

Still reliable. More agent locations than MoneyGram in some areas. Slightly more expensive for small amounts.

Bank wire transfers

Slow (2-5 days). Higher fees. Not recommended for small amounts. But secure.

According to Nairametrics, the best choice depends on your specific needs. For cash pickup, MoneyGram and Western Union are your best options. For digital transfers, Lemfi and Chipper Cash lead the market.

If you are building a side hustle in Nigeria, receiving money from international clients is common. Learn all your options.

Sources and Further Reading