Smartcash Payment Service Bank (Smartcash PSB), a subsidiary of Airtel Nigeria, has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation tagged “Zero-Charges”, which eliminates all transaction fees on interbank transfers, bill payments, and SMS alerts across its platforms.
The initiative, described as a major step toward deepening financial inclusion, aims to make digital banking more accessible and affordable to millions of Nigerians, especially those without formal bank accounts.
At the launch event held in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer of Smartcash PSB, Mr. Tunde Kuponiyi, said the move was designed to ease financial burdens on households and small businesses while expanding access to digital financial services nationwide.
Kuponiyi stated:“This is more than just a pricing adjustment; it is a revolution in how Nigerians experience digital banking.
“By removing fees across transfers, bill payments, and SMS alerts, we are putting customers at the centre of financial innovation and inclusiveness. This initiative not only reduces costs for families and businesses but also opens the door for millions of unbanked Nigerians to confidently embrace digital finance without the fear of hidden charges.”
In a statement signed by Mr. Femi Adeniran, Director of Corporate Communications & CSR, Airtel Nigeria, the company reiterated its commitment to customer-first innovation and transparency, saying the Zero-Charges model represents Smartcash’s long-term vision to promote financial freedom through technology.
According to Kuponiyi, the move aligns with Airtel’s broader mission of transforming lives through innovation and connectivity.
He explained that millions of Nigerians depend on digital and mobile platforms for daily transactions, and the removal of service fees would significantly increase access and affordability.
He added: “At Smartcash, we believe technology and financial services should empower, not limit.
“The launch of Zero-Charges underscores our commitment to enabling a more inclusive, accessible, and affordable financial ecosystem for Nigerians. This is about empowerment giving every customer, from urban centres to rural communities, the opportunity to transact seamlessly without worrying about cost.”
Industry experts say the Smartcash Zero-Charges initiative could set a new benchmark in Nigeria’s financial services sector, potentially reshaping customer expectations and redefining the competitive landscape.
