NIBSS is developing offline payment options to include Nigerians without reliable internet access in digital finance.
The Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) says it is exploring offline payment solutions to reach millions of Nigerians with limited or no internet access. The disclosure was made by NIBSS Executive Director, Business and Products, Ngover Nwankwo, at the 2026 CHBO Conference in Lagos.
Nwankwo said digital payment growth must balance innovation with inclusion, stressing that cash will remain essential and must coexist with digital channels. She noted improvements in cash availability in late 2025 and highlighted biometric authentication that allows customers to verify cards using fingerprints.
Industry leaders agreed that cash still plays a major role globally, while warning that too much cash outside banks weakens monetary policy. The Central Bank of Nigeria added that about 90% of cash remains outside the banking system, urging banks to partner with fintechs and microfinance institutions.
With electronic payments hitting ₦284.9 trillion in Q1 2025 and about 60% of Nigerians not using mobile internet, offline payments could bridge a major inclusion gap.
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