By Ayomide Otitoju
Unity Bank Plc has reinforced its commitment to financial inclusion and the expansion of electronic payments through a strategic partnership with AfriGo, Nigeria’s national domestic card scheme. The alliance aims to promote wider adoption of locally issued cards and enhance access to secure digital transactions within Nigeria’s retail banking sector.
The announcement was made during a high-level business strategy meeting held at Unity Bank’s Lagos headquarters, which was attended by AfriGo’s Executive Management Team.
Unity Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, emphasized the bank’s dedication to positioning the AfriGo Card as a primary delivery channel. He stated, “As a national domestic card scheme, AfriGo deserves strong promotion both internally and externally as a local solution with the potential to transform Nigeria’s card payment landscape.”
Mr. Kolawole reiterated Unity Bank’s ongoing support for the widespread adoption of AfriGo cards and called on AfriGo to intensify marketing and awareness efforts to boost public acceptance.
In response, AfriGo’s Managing Director, Mr. Ebehijie Momoh, praised Unity Bank’s leadership role in championing the domestic card scheme. “Unity Bank ranks among the top five adopters of the AfriGo card and has been instrumental in advancing financial inclusion and improving access to electronic payments,” he said.
Mr. Momoh highlighted AfriGo’s recent technological innovations, including support for instant payments and offline transaction capabilities aimed at underserved and remote areas. He also pointed to the integration with Tap & Go solutions as a significant enhancement for contactless payment adoption, particularly benefiting commuters and everyday users.
“We are excited about leveraging Unity Bank’s extensive retail network to deepen collaboration and promote broader e-banking penetration nationwide,” Mr. Momoh added.
The partnership underscores Unity Bank’s reputation for digital innovation and its strategic focus on inclusive banking solutions leveraging local technology.
Over the years, Unity Bank has launched various digital products targeting diverse demographics, including:
USSD Banking (7799#) offered in local Nigerian languages to bridge access gaps in rural and semi-urban areas.
Unifi, a youth-focused digital banking platform tailored to the financial and lifestyle needs of Gen Z and Millennials.
GenFi, a gamified mobile banking app designed for children and teenagers to foster smart saving and money management habits early.
The collaboration with AfriGo marks a significant milestone in Unity Bank’s mission to drive digital transformation and expand financial access for all Nigerians.
