FirstBank, Visa Launch Naira Debit Card To Deepen Cashless Payment Adoption

FirstBank has partnered with Visa to launch a new Naira Visa Debit Card aimed at expanding access to electronic payments and accelerating Nigeria’s transition toward a cashless economy.

The new debit card, unveiled on May 15, 2026, is designed to provide affordable and reliable digital payment solutions for millions of Nigerians carrying out routine local and international transactions.

According to the bank, the Naira Visa Debit Card will enable customers to make payments seamlessly across Point of Sale (POS) terminals, Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and online platforms through Visa’s global payment network.

The initiative is expected to support the Federal Government and Central Bank of Nigeria’s cashless policy drive by encouraging more Nigerians to embrace electronic payment channels for everyday transactions.

The card targets a broad category of consumers, particularly individuals seeking convenient and secure alternatives to cash payments for groceries, utility bills, online shopping and other daily expenses.

Speaking on the launch, Group Executive for eBusiness and Retail Products at FirstBank, Chuma Ezirim, said the initiative was aimed at simplifying financial transactions while promoting financial inclusion across the country.

“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 expanding access to reliable electronic payment solutions would help more Nigerians transition confidently from cash-based transactions to digital payments while strengthening the nation’s financial ecosystem.

Also commenting on the partnership, Visa’s Vice President and Cluster Head for West Africa, Andrew Uaboi, described the new product as part of efforts to build a more inclusive payment 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 launch further expanded Visa’s partnership with FirstBank and strengthened the bank’s existing card portfolio, which already includes credit and premium lifestyle spending cards.

According to the bank, the introduction of the Naira Visa Debit Card ensures that customers across different income levels now have access to payment products tailored to their financial needs.

The card is currently available to eligible FirstBank customers through the bank’s branches nationwide.