No OTP? UBA Secure Pass and why you need it

UBA Secure Pass previously called U-Token is a free mobile token app that generates one-time passwords (OTPs) for authorizing transactions on UBA’s digital platforms—even when you’re offline or stuck with poor network coverage.

Picture this: You’re about to send urgent money to family, but your network is acting up and SMS OTPs aren’t coming through. Frustrating, right? That’s exactly why United Bank for Africa created Secure Pass. No more waiting for text messages that never arrive or dealing with expired codes during critical transactions.

Whether you’re managing business payments in Lagos traffic or sending money from a village with spotty network, this little app keeps your banking running smooth. Plus, it’s your ticket to higher transaction limits without visiting any branch.

What Makes UBA Secure Pass Different from Regular OTP

Most Nigerian banks still rely on SMS for transaction authorization. We all know how that goes—delayed messages, network issues, or worse, no message at all when you need it most.

UBA Secure Pass operates differently. It’s a soft token that lives on your smartphone and generates fresh 6-digit codes every 60 seconds. Think of it as your personal OTP factory that works anywhere, anytime.

Key Benefits That Actually Matter

• Works offline: No internet required for OTP generation
• Higher transaction limits: Unlock limits beyond standard SMS-based accounts
• Faster transactions: No waiting for SMS delays
• Enhanced security: Harder to intercept than text messages
• Self-service activation: Set up from your phone without branch visits

The app uses time-based algorithms similar to Google Authenticator but specifically designed for UBA’s banking ecosystem.

How to Download and Set Up UBA Secure Pass (Step-by-Step)

Getting started takes about 5 minutes if you already have UBA Internet Banking or Mobile Banking access.

Prerequisites You Must Have

Before downloading, ensure you have:

• An active UBA account
• UBA Internet Banking (U-Direct) or UBA Mobile Banking access
• Your login credentials (User ID and password)
• A smartphone (Android 5.0+ or iOS 10.0+)

Download Process

For Android Users:

1. Open Google Play Store
2. Search “UBA Secure Pass”
3. Install the official app (published by UBA Group)
4. Look for the green UBA logo to avoid fake apps

For iPhone Users:

1. Visit Apple App Store
2. Search “UBA Secure Pass”
3. Download and install

Activation Without Branch Visit

Here’s where many people get confused. The activation is self-service, but you need your banking credentials.

1. Open the UBA Secure Pass app
2. Select “Activate New Token”
3. Enter your UBA Internet Banking User ID (not your account number)
4. Input your Internet Banking password
5. Create a 4-digit PIN for the Secure Pass app
6. Confirm your PIN
7. Wait for activation confirmation

The app will sync with UBA’s servers and generate your first OTP within seconds.

What If Activation Gets Stuck?

Some users report the app freezing on a red screen during activation. Here’s what works:

• Ensure your phone’s date and time are set to automatic
• Clear the app cache and restart
• Check your internet connection during activation (you need it just for setup)
• Try activating during off-peak hours (avoid Monday mornings)

Using UBA Secure Pass for Daily Transactions

Once activated, using Secure Pass becomes second nature.

For Internet Banking Transactions

1. Log into UBA Internet Banking as usual
2. Initiate your transfer or payment
3. When prompted for authorization code, open UBA Secure Pass
4. Enter your 4-digit PIN
5. Copy the 6-digit OTP displayed
6. Paste it into the banking portal
7. Complete your transaction

For Mobile Banking

The process is similar but faster:

1. Open UBA Mobile Banking app
2. Start your transaction
3. Switch to UBA Secure Pass when prompted
4. Generate and copy the OTP
5. Return to mobile banking and paste the code

OTP Timing and Refresh

Each code lasts 60 seconds before automatically refreshing. If you’re slow typing, wait for the next code rather than using an expired one.

Increasing Your Transaction Limits with Secure Pass

This is where Secure Pass really shines. Standard UBA accounts have daily limits that can feel restrictive for business owners or frequent users.

Default vs. Enhanced Limits

• Standard SMS-based limits: Often capped at ₦100,000 daily
• Secure Pass limits: Can go significantly higher based on your profile

The E-Indemnity Process

To unlock higher limits, you’ll need to complete an e-indemnity form within the UBA Mobile Banking app:

1. Login to UBA Mobile Banking
2. Navigate to “Transaction Limits” or “Increase Limits”
3. Complete the e-indemnity questionnaire
4. Submit required documentation (if any)
5. Wait for approval (usually 24-48 hours)

The e-indemnity essentially means you’re accepting responsibility for transactions above standard limits, so UBA can offer you more flexibility.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Let’s address the problems users actually face, not the theoretical ones.

“Secure Pass Not Generating OTP”

Possible Causes:

• App needs updating
• Phone’s time settings are wrong
• Token has expired or needs reactivation

Solutions:

1. Update the app from your app store
2. Set phone time to “Automatic” or “Network Time”
3. If still failing, deactivate and reactivate the token

“Authentication Capabilities Error”

This cryptic message usually means:

• Your Internet Banking credentials have changed
• The token is out of sync with UBA’s servers
• Your banking profile needs updating

Fix: Contact UBA Customer Fulfillment Center at [email protected] or call +234-1-2808822

“PIN Forgotten or Blocked”

Unlike your ATM PIN, you can’t reset your Secure Pass PIN at an ATM. You’ll need to:

1. Uninstall the UBA Secure Pass app
2. Reinstall from the app store
3. Reactivate with your Internet Banking credentials
4. Create a new 4-digit PIN

App Crashes or Freezes

Before panicking:

• Close all background apps
• Restart your phone
• Clear app cache (Android users)
• Reinstall if problems persist

UBA Secure Pass vs. Other Authentication Methods

Understanding your options helps you make informed decisions.

Secure Pass vs. SMS OTP

Feature	UBA Secure Pass	SMS OTP
Network requirement	None (offline)	Required
Speed	Instant	30 seconds to 5 minutes
Reliability	High	Depends on network
Transaction limits	Higher potential	Standard limits
Cost	Free	Network charges may apply
Security	Time-based encryption	Network-dependent

Secure Pass vs. Hardware Token

Hardware tokens are physical devices that some corporate clients use. They’re more secure but less convenient:

• Secure Pass: Free, on your phone, higher limits possible
• Hardware Token: Costs about ₦2,500, separate device, corporate-grade security

For personal banking, Secure Pass offers the best balance of security and convenience.

Security Features and Data Privacy

Nigerian banking customers are rightfully cautious about financial apps. Here’s what UBA has implemented:

Encryption and Protection

• Time-based OTP generation using industry-standard algorithms
• Local PIN protection (your 4-digit code never leaves your phone)
• No transaction data stored on the device
• Automatic session timeout for unused tokens

What Data Does the App Collect?

According to UBA’s privacy policy:

• Device information for activation
• Usage patterns for security monitoring
• No personal transaction details
• No contact list or location access

The app operates under Central Bank of Nigeria regulations and UBA’s existing data protection commitments.

Traveling with UBA Secure Pass

One of the biggest advantages is international usability.

Using Secure Pass Abroad

• Works offline in any country
• No roaming charges for OTP generation
• Same familiar interface regardless of location
• Compatible with international internet banking access

Backup Plans When Traveling

Smart travelers prepare for multiple scenarios:

1. Screenshot your User ID (store securely)
2. Note UBA’s international contact numbers
3. Carry a backup phone with the app installed
4. Know your branch codes for manual processes if needed

Multiple Device Setup and Management

UBA allows Secure Pass installation on multiple devices, but with important limitations.

Installing on a Second Phone

You can activate Secure Pass on a new device, but:

• Previous installations become inactive automatically
• Only one active token per account at any time
• Reactivation requires your banking credentials each time

What Happens When You Change Phones

Getting a new phone? Here’s the migration process:

1. Install UBA Secure Pass on your new device
2. Activate normally with your banking credentials
3. Your old device’s token will automatically deactivate
4. Test the new installation before disposing of your old phone

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use UBA Secure Pass without Internet Banking?

Unfortunately, no. You need either UBA Internet Banking or UBA Mobile Banking access to activate and use Secure Pass. These services are free to set up at any UBA branch.

What if my phone gets stolen with Secure Pass installed?

The app is PIN-protected, so thieves can’t generate OTPs without your 4-digit code. However:

1. Report the theft to UBA immediately
2. Change your Internet Banking password as a precaution
3. Reactivate Secure Pass on your replacement phone
4. Consider remote wiping your stolen device if possible

Does UBA Secure Pass work on all Android versions?

The app requires Android 5.0 or later. Very old phones might not be compatible. Check your Android version in Settings > About Phone.

Can I delete UBA Secure Pass and reinstall later?

Yes, but you’ll need to reactivate completely each time. Your banking credentials and a new PIN will be required. The old token becomes permanently inactive once you uninstall.

Why does my OTP keep expiring before I can use it?

Each OTP lasts exactly 60 seconds. If you’re consistently too slow:

• Copy the code immediately when generated
• Keep both apps open (banking and Secure Pass) to switch quickly
• Wait for a fresh code rather than using an almost-expired one

Are there any charges for using UBA Secure Pass?

The app itself is completely free. No download charges, activation fees, or monthly subscriptions. However, your regular banking transaction charges still apply.

What happens if UBA updates the app?

App updates are automatic through your phone’s app store. Major updates might require reactivation, but UBA typically sends advance notice through their official channels.

Final Thoughts: Is UBA Secure Pass Worth It?

For most UBA customers, absolutely. The offline capability alone makes it invaluable in Nigeria’s network environment. Higher transaction limits are a bonus that business owners particularly appreciate.

The setup process might seem intimidating initially, but once configured, it simplifies your banking experience significantly. No more frustration with delayed SMS codes or failed transactions due to network issues.

Best suited for:

• Frequent online banking users
• Business owners needing higher limits
• Travelers who bank internationally
• Anyone tired of SMS OTP delays

Consider alternatives if:

• You rarely bank online
• You prefer physical branch transactions
• Your phone is very old or unreliable

The key is understanding that UBA Secure Pass is a tool for convenience and enhanced access, not a requirement for basic banking. Once you experience the smooth, network-independent transaction flow, you’ll wonder how you managed without it.

Remember to keep your PIN secure, update the app regularly, and don’t hesitate to contact UBA support when issues arise. Their customer service team is generally responsive to Secure Pass-related queries.

Ready to get started? Download from your app store, gather your Internet Banking credentials, and activate your token today. Your future self will thank you the next time network issues threaten to derail an urgent transaction.