First Bank of Nigeria, Visa Unveil Naira Debit Card to Deepen Cashless Economy

First Bank  and Visa have launched a new Naira Visa Debit Card aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s transition to a cashless economy by expanding access to secure and convenient electronic payment solutions for millions of Nigerians. 

firstbanknigeria.com

visa.com.ng

Announcing the initiative in Lagos on May 15, 2026, the partners said the card is designed for everyday consumers seeking a reliable payment option for local and international transactions. The Naira Visa Debit Card can be used across Point of Sale (POS) terminals, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), and online payment platforms connected to Visa’s global payment network.

According to the two organisations, the product is expected to ease the transition from cash-based transactions to digital payments, particularly for routine purchases such as groceries, utility bills, retail shopping, and e-commerce activities.

Speaking on the launch, Chuma Ezirim, Group Executive, eBusiness & Retail Products at FirstBank, described the card as a major step toward improving financial inclusion and simplifying transactions for customers nationwide.

“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 the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s cashless policy while empowering more Nigerians with access to dependable digital financial services.

Also commenting, Andrew Uaboi, Vice President and Cluster Head, West Africa at Visa, said the partnership reflects the companies’ commitment to building an inclusive and efficient payments ecosystem in Nigeria.

“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 stated.

He noted that the latest addition further broadens the range of Visa-enabled payment solutions already available to FirstBank customers across various income segments.

The launch comes amid sustained efforts by the Central Bank of Nigeria to promote electronic payment channels and reduce dependence on cash transactions nationwide.

FirstBank said the Naira Visa Debit Card is now available to eligible account holders through its branches across the country.

About Visa

Visa is a global leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and governments in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide.

About First Bank of Nigeria

Founded in 1894, FirstBank is West Africa’s premier bank and one of Africa’s leading financial inclusion service providers, with operations spanning Africa, Europe, and Asia.