Nigeria’s homegrown debit card, AfriGO, is proving that local innovation can compete on a global scale. In just 2025 alone, the card has processed over ₦70 billion worth of transactions, a major milestone for a payment system launched barely two years ago.
The update was shared by Premier Oiwoh, Managing Director and CEO of the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS), who described AfriGO’s performance as a testament to its growing nationwide adoption among merchants and consumers.
A Local Card with Global Standards
AfriGO was introduced by NIBSS in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to reduce reliance on international card schemes and promote domestic payment sovereignty. Today, the card has achieved remarkable traction, with over one million cards issued nationwide.
What makes AfriGO particularly unique is its instant credit feature, a capability no other card globally currently offers. This allows merchants to receive funds immediately after a POS transaction, eliminating the typical 24-hour settlement delay that has long frustrated small business owners.
Driving Financial Inclusion
Beyond innovation, AfriGO’s broader goal is inclusion. The initiative supports seamless cash withdrawals, offline payments, and digital transactions, making it easier for millions of unbanked and underbanked Nigerians to join the formal financial system.
By focusing on affordability, local integration, and offline functionality, AfriGO is building a bridge between rural economies and digital finance, empowering small merchants, artisans, and micro-businesses across the country.
A Step Toward a Self-Reliant Payment Future
As the global fintech landscape evolves, AfriGO’s rise signals a shift toward Africa-led infrastructure in the payments space. For Nigeria, it’s not just about reducing costs; it’s about building resilient, locally controlled systems that can support long-term growth and innovation.
With ₦70 billion in transaction value and counting, AfriGO isn’t just Nigeria’s domestic card, it’s becoming a symbol of financial independence.
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