Visa Partners First Bank of Nigeria Limited to Broaden Electronic Payment Access Across Nigeria

Visa has partnered First Bank of Nigeria Limited to expand access to electronic payment services across Nigeria following the launch of a new Naira Visa Debit Card targeted at retail consumers and everyday banking transactions.

The partnership is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s transition toward a cashless economy by increasing the availability of secure digital payment solutions for customers across different income segments.

Under the collaboration, FirstBank customers will gain access to a Naira-denominated Visa debit card that supports transactions on Point of Sale terminals, ATMs and online payment platforms both within Nigeria and internationally through Visa’s global payment network.

The move comes as financial institutions intensify efforts to support the cashless policy initiatives introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria aimed at reducing cash transactions and encouraging wider adoption of electronic payment channels.

According to FirstBank, the new debit card was developed to simplify routine financial transactions, including retail purchases, utility bill payments, online shopping and other digital commerce activities.

Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, eBusiness and Retail Products at FirstBank, said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to improving access to secure and reliable electronic payment services.

“Everyday transactions should be simple, secure and rewarding. The Naira Visa Debit Card is designed to make life easier for our customers whether they are paying for groceries, settling utility bills or shopping online,” Ezirim said.

He added that expanding electronic payment access would help more Nigerians confidently transition from cash-based transactions to digital financial services while supporting financial inclusion across underserved communities.

Visa described the partnership as part of broader efforts to deepen digital payment penetration in Nigeria and strengthen the country’s financial ecosystem.

Andrew Uaboi, Vice President and Cluster Head, West Africa, Visa, said accessible payment infrastructure remains critical to driving financial participation and economic growth.

“A strong payments ecosystem is one that works for everyone. The Naira Visa Debit Card extends reliable electronic payment access to everyday Nigerian consumers,” Uaboi said.

The launch also broadens FirstBank’s Visa card portfolio, which includes credit cards and premium lifestyle payment products designed for different categories of customers.

Industry experts believe the continued expansion of electronic payment infrastructure could support growth in retail banking, e-commerce and digital financial services as consumer adoption of online and mobile payments increases nationwide.

The new Naira Visa Debit Card is available to eligible FirstBank account holders through the bank’s branches across Nigeria.