FirstBank, Visa partner to launch Naira Visa debit card

First Bank of Nigeria Limited has announced the launch of its Naira Visa Debit Card in partnership with global payment giant Visa.

The new card aims to extend accessible and reliable electronic payment capabilities to a broader segment of the Nigerian population.

Targeted at everyday consumers who require a dependable payment instrument for routine domestic and international transactions, the card is accepted across point-of-sale terminals, automated teller machines, and online platforms through the extensive Visa payments network.

The product is designed to reduce friction for customers transitioning from cash to electronic payments across various sectors, including retail, utilities, and digital commerce.

The launch aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing drive toward a cashless economy, a policy direction that has gained significant momentum following successive Central Bank of Nigeria directives encouraging the adoption of electronic payment channels. By serving customers across the country’s diverse economic segments, the partnership seeks to bridge the gap in digital financial access.

Commenting, Chuma Ezirim, the Group Executive of eBusiness and Retail Products at FirstBank, emphasized that everyday transactions should be simple, secure, and rewarding.

He noted that the Naira Visa Debit Card is designed to make life easier for customers whether they are paying for groceries, settling utility bills, or shopping online.

He added that by extending reliable electronic payment access across Nigeria, the bank is helping more people transition confidently from cash to digital payments, thereby supporting the nation’s cashless policy and empowering communities with greater financial inclusion.

Commenting on the strategic importance of the partnership, Andrew Uaboi, Vice President and Cluster Head for West Africa at Visa, stated that a strong payments ecosystem is one that works for everyone.

He explained that the Naira Visa Debit Card extends reliable electronic payment access to everyday Nigerian consumers, which demonstrates what a truly comprehensive card portfolio looks like for the Nigerian market.

He also expressed pride in Visa powering this new offering with FirstBank.

The addition of the Naira Visa Debit Card broadens the existing Visa card portfolio at FirstBank, which already includes credit cards and high-end premium lifestyle spending cards.

This rollout completes the bank’s offerings across various customer segments, ensuring that cardholders at every income level have access to a product suited to their financial needs.

The bank confirmed that the Naira Visa Debit Card is now available to all eligible FirstBank account holders through any of its branches nationwide.