FirstBank and Visa Unveil Naira Visa Debit Card to Boost Nigeria’s Cashless Economy
In a strategic move to accelerate Nigeria’s journey towards a cashless society, FirstBank of Nigeria Limited has launched the Naira Visa Debit Card in partnership with Visa. Designed to be affordable, widely accepted, and suitable for everyday transactions, the new card aims to make electronic payments more accessible for millions of Nigerians.
Launched on 15 May 2026 in Lagos, the Naira Visa Debit Card is targeted at everyday consumers seeking a reliable payment instrument for both domestic and international transactions. Accepted across POS terminals, ATMs, and online platforms via Visa’s comprehensive payments network, the card is engineered to reduce barriers for users transitioning from cash to digital payments—covering retail purchases, utility bills, and digital commerce.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader ambition to build a cashless economy—a policy trajectory that has gained momentum following successive directives from the Central Bank of Nigeria encouraging the adoption of electronic payment channels. The card is intended to serve customers across Nigeria’s diverse economic landscape, from urban centres to rural communities.
Speaking on the launch, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, eBusiness & Retail Products at FirstBank, stated: “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. By extending reliable electronic payment access across Nigeria, we are helping more people transition confidently from cash to digital payments, supporting the nation’s cashless policy and empowering communities with greater financial inclusion.”
Andrew Uaboi, Vice President and Cluster Head for West Africa at Visa, highlighted the strategic importance of this partnership: “A strong payments ecosystem is one that works for everyone. The Naira Visa Debit Card extends reliable electronic payment access to everyday Nigerian consumers, and this in addition to the cards in our portfolio continues to demonstrate what a truly comprehensive card portfolio looks like for the Nigerian market. Visa is proud to power this offering with FirstBank.”
The launch of the Naira Visa Debit Card complements FirstBank’s existing Visa portfolio, which includes credit cards and premium lifestyle products. The new debit card ensures that customers across all income levels have access to a product suited to their needs, broadening the bank’s reach across diverse market segments.
The Naira Visa Debit Card is available to all eligible FirstBank account holders through any of the bank’s branches nationwide.