The commitment was solidified during a recent high-level strategic business engagement held at Unity Bank's head office in Lagos, attended by both organizations' executive management teams. This alliance is expected to play a crucial role in expanding access to convenient and secure electronic payment solutions for a wider demographic.
A Shared Vision for Nigeria's Payment Landscape
Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, Managing Director/CEO of Unity Bank, emphasized the bank's dedication to making the AfriGo Card a primary channel for its customers. "As a national domestic card scheme, it deserves to be promoted both internally and externally as a local solution with significant potential to redefine Nigeria’s card payment landscape," he stated. Kolawole also assured AfriGo of Unity Bank's continued support in promoting the card across its extensive network, while encouraging AfriGo to intensify its awareness campaigns to drive broader market acceptance.
Ebehijie Momoh, Managing Director of AfriGo, lauded Unity Bank's proactive support, highlighting that the bank is already among the top five adopters of the AfriGo card. She underscored the growing impact of AfriGo in advancing financial inclusion and improving access to electronic payments, especially in underserved regions.
Innovating for Broader Reach
AfriGo, according to Momoh, remains committed to technological innovation, developing solutions that facilitate instant payments and even offline capabilities. These advancements are crucial for ensuring wider access to e-payment systems, particularly in areas with limited connectivity. Partnerships with solutions like Tap & Go have further propelled contactless payment adoption, offering enhanced convenience for cardholders on the go. Momoh expressed optimism that Unity Bank's extensive retail network will be instrumental in driving deeper collaboration and enhancing e-banking penetration nationwide.
A Legacy of Digital Innovation and Inclusion
This partnership aligns perfectly with Unity Bank's long-standing commitment to digital innovation and financial inclusion through homegrown technology. The bank has a history of introducing pioneering digital solutions designed to cater to various segments of the Nigerian population.
Notably, Unity Bank was a pioneer in introducing *USSD banking (7799#) in local languages, a strategic initiative aimed at deepening access to financial services among rural and semi-urban populations who might face language barriers. The bank also launched Unifi, a digital banking platform specifically tailored to meet the lifestyle and financial needs of the younger generation.
Most recently, Unity Bank unveiled GenFi, an innovative gamified mobile banking solution designed for children and teenagers, encouraging them to cultivate smart money habits from an early age. This latest collaboration with AfriGo further solidifies Unity Bank's dedication to creating an inclusive and digitally empowered financial ecosystem in Nigeria.