Tag: OPAY

  • CBN honours OPay for financial inclusion innovation

    CBN honours OPay for financial inclusion innovation

    Nigeria leading financial institution OPay has been recognised with the prestigious International Financial Inclusion Conference (IFIC) Award for Financial Inclusion Innovation by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    The award was presented at the 2024 IFIC, a flagship event that convened global thought leaders, regulators, and industry stakeholders to strategise on accelerating financial inclusion across Africa and beyond.

    The award reinforces OPay’s compliance with regulatory standards and its pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s financial inclusion goals, aligning with the CBN’s mission to achieve a 95 per cent financial inclusion rate.

    Through close collaboration with the apex bank and other regulatory bodies, OPay has delivered secure, innovative, and accessible digital financial services to millions of Nigerians, overcoming barriers that have long hindered inclusion efforts.

    The award selection process was a comprehensive one which assessed key metrics such as regulatory adherence, technological innovation, customer impact, and contributions to advancing the CBN’s financial inclusion goals.

    OPay won the Financial Inclusion Innovation Award, standing out among a competitive pool of financial industry players for its exemplary performance in delivering secure, accessible, and innovative financial solutions.

    At the core of OPay’s success is its unwavering commitment to security and regulatory alignment. Its robust platform ensures safe transactions, fostering trust and confidence among users.

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    “This recognition by the CBN highlights OPay’s dedication to providing innovative, compliant, and inclusive financial solutions,” OPay Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dauda Gotring, said.

    The IFIC Conference provided a platform to address pressing issues in Nigeria’s financial inclusion landscape, including expanding access to financial services, enhancing digital literacy, and strengthening collaboration between regulators and private sector players like OPay.

    As Nigeria moves closer to its financial inclusion target, OPay remains steadfast in its commitment to leveraging technology within the framework of regulatory compliance.

    The award has not only acknowledged OPay’s contributions but also reinforced the significance of public-private partnerships in building a secure, innovative, and inclusive financial ecosystem that drives sustainable economic growth.

    OPay was established in 2018 as a leading financial institution in Nigeria with the mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology.

    The company offers a wide range of payment services, including money transfer, bill payment, airtime and data purchase, card service, and merchant payments, among others.

    Renowned for its super-fast experience and reliable network, OPay is licensed by the CBN and insured by the NDIC with the same insurance coverage as commercial banks.

  • CBN Awards OPay for Financial Inclusion Innovation

    CBN Awards OPay for Financial Inclusion Innovation

    OPay, Nigeria’s leading financial institution has been recognized with the prestigious IFIC Award for Financial Inclusion Innovation by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This award was presented at the 2024 International Financial Inclusion Conference (IFIC), a flagship event that convened global thought leaders, regulators, and industry stakeholders to strategize on accelerating financial inclusion across Africa and beyond.

    The award reinforces OPay’s compliance with regulatory standards and its pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s financial inclusion goals, aligning with the CBN’s mission to achieve a 95% financial inclusion rate by 2024. Through close collaboration with the CBN and other regulatory bodies, OPay has delivered secure, innovative, and accessible digital financial services to millions of Nigerians, overcoming barriers that have long hindered inclusion efforts.

    The award selection process was a comprehensive one which assessed key metrics such as regulatory adherence, technological innovation, customer impact, and contributions to advancing the CBN’s financial inclusion goals. OPay emerged as the winner of the Financial Inclusion Innovation Award, standing out among a competitive pool of financial industry players for its exemplary performance in delivering secure, accessible, and innovative financial solutions.

    At the core of OPay’s success is its unwavering commitment to security and regulatory alignment. Its robust platform ensures safe transactions, fostering trust and confidence among users. “This recognition by the CBN highlights OPay’s dedication to providing innovative, compliant, and inclusive financial solutions,” said Dauda Gotring, CEO of OPay.

    Read Also: OPay collaborates with AfriGOpay to enhance digital payments in Nigeria

    The 2024 IFIC Conference provided a platform to address pressing issues in Nigeria’s financial inclusion landscape, including expanding access to financial services, enhancing digital literacy, and strengthening collaboration between regulators and private sector players like OPay.

    As Nigeria moves closer to its financial inclusion target, OPay remains steadfast in its commitment to leveraging technology within the framework of regulatory compliance. This award not only celebrates OPay’s contributions but also reinforces the significance of public-private partnerships in building a secure, innovative, and inclusive financial ecosystem that drives sustainable economic growth.

    About OPay

    OPay was established in 2018 as a leading financial institution in Nigeria with the mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology. The company offers a wide range of payment services, including money transfer, bill payment, airtime & data purchase, card service, and merchant payments, among others. Renowned for its super-fast experience and reliable network, OPay is licensed by the CBN and insured by the NDIC with the same insurance coverage as commercial banks.

  • OPay collaborates with AfriGOpay to enhance digital payments in Nigeria

    OPay collaborates with AfriGOpay to enhance digital payments in Nigeria

    Nigeria’s leading financial service provider OPay has announced a strategic partnership with AfriGO Card, powered by Afrigopay Financial Services Limited (AFSL), a subsidiary of Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).

    Opay’s strategic partnership with AfriGO, Nigeria’s National Domestic Card Scheme, is a significant move to further enhance availability of digital payment services to Nigerians.

    AfriGO aims to deepen financial inclusivity by utilizing innovative products, customer-focused approach and cutting-edge technology.

    By reducing the country’s dependency on foreign exchange (FX) for payment transactions and ensuring data sovereignty, AfriGO Card strengthens, empowers local businesses and creates new opportunities within the growing card business ecosystem in Nigeria.

    The OPay/AfriGO partnership will facilitate rapid scaling whilst significantly ensuring that secure and convenient payment solutions are available across Nigeria.

    “Our partnership with AfriGO aligns perfectly with our goal of simplifying financial services for every Nigerian,” MD/CEO at Opay, Mr. Dauda Gotring, said.

    According to Gotring, “The OPay/AfriGO card is not just a product; it’s a powerful tool that will enable us to reach more Nigerians, particularly those who have been underserved by traditional banking services.

    “This will provide Nigerians with a more affordable payment option, enable instant settlement of transactions, and further promote financial inclusion across the country.”

    Read Also: Opay, UI sign pact on scholarship for 20 gifted students

    Speaking on the collaboration, the Managing Director & CEO of Afrigopay Financial Services Ltd. (AFSL), Mrs. Ebehijie Momoh, said “This partnership is set to transform financial service delivery, particularly in underserved areas.

    “Agent networks expand coverage by supporting local businesses and offering key banking services, such as purchases, deposits, withdrawals, and money transfers, thus enhancing accessibility and promoting financial inclusion.”

    Momoh stated that wth AfriGO Instant Settlement service, merchants and agents will benefit from the immediate finalization of transactions, leading to greater efficiency, improved cash flow, and reduced risk.

    “Supported by robust technology infrastructure and effective liquidity management to ensure smooth and secure operations, together, we will make financial services faster and more accessible,” she added.

    AfriGO underscores its commitment to foster local innovation while ensuring that solutions are relevant and effective for Nigerian consumers. The partnership reinforces OPay’s commitment to offering advanced, efficient payment solutions to its millions of customers.

    OPay’s collaboration with AFSL to launch the OPay/AfriGO Card is expected to significantly boost digital payment adoption in Nigeria, offering a secure, local alternative to international payment cards.

    As OPay expands its services, this partnership will play a key role in shaping the future of payments in Nigeria.

    OPay was established in 2018 as a leading financial institution in Nigeria with the mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology.

    The company offers a wide range of payment services, including money transfer, bill payment, airtime & data purchase, card service, and merchant payments, among others.

    Renowned for its super-fast experience and reliable network, OPay is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and insured by the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) with the same insurance coverage as commercial banks.

  • OPay grants N12m scholarship to 40 ABU students

    OPay grants N12m scholarship to 40 ABU students

    Nigeria’s leading financial service provider OPay has awarded N12 million in scholarships to 40 deserving students of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

    Under the heart-warming gesture and another laudable initiative aimed at empowering the next generation, each student will receive N300,000, easing financial pressures and encouraging them to pursue their studies with confidence.

    The scholarship award ceremony, held at ABU’s Vice-Chancellor’s office, marked a significant milestone for both OPay and the students.

    Managing Director of OPay and a proud ABU alumnus, Mr. Dauda Gotring, spoke about what it meant for him personally to support students at the university that shaped his life.

    “ABU holds a special place in my life, and I’m thrilled to give back to students here who show such promise and determination,” he said.

    Gotring added: For us at OPay, giving back to society—especially through education—is at the heart of what we do.”

    ABU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kabiru Bala, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the scholarships, emphasizing the difference they would make in the students’ lives.

    “This support from OPay will lift a heavy burden off our students, helping them focus on their dreams and academic goals. We are incredibly grateful to OPay for their generosity and partnership,” he said.

    OPay’s new initiative aims to support 400 students annually across Nigerian universities, including the University of Ibadan and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, investing N120 million each year to help more young people thrive.

    Read Also: OPay leads future of secure payments with BAFI award win

    This decade-long commitment will make a meaningful impact on Nigerian education, nurturing future leaders and creating opportunities for students in need.

    Yet, OPay’s dedication to uplifting communities doesn’t stop there, as the organisation is engaging in conversations and plans on initiatives aimed at empowering women in Zaria through entrepreneurship programs, startup support, and skills training.

    By focusing on both education and economic empowerment, OPay is dedicated to creating a ripple effect of positive change that strengthens communities and local economies.

    OPay was established in 2018 as a leading financial institution in Nigeria with the mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology.

    The company offers a wide range of payment services, including money transfer, bill payment, airtime & data purchase, card service, and merchant payments, among others.

    Renowned for its super-fast experience and reliable network, OPay is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and insured by the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) with the same insurance coverage as commercial banks.

  • Opay, UI sign pact on scholarship for 20 gifted students

    Opay, UI sign pact on scholarship for 20 gifted students

    A leading financial institution in Nigeria – OPay – has demonstrated its commitment to advancing education by signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Ibadan (UI).

    The partnership, which reinforces OPay’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and empowering the next generation of Nigerian leaders, will award N300,000 scholarships annually to 20 exceptional students over the next 10 years.

    The MoU signing, held at the UI, was attended by representatives from OPay, management staff of the varsity and some beneficiaries of the scholarship.

    The event highlighted OPay’s commitment to supporting the education of promising young Nigerians.

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    Piloting with the UI, the scholarship initiative which is an important Community and Social Responsibility (CSR) project for OPay is set to expand to Ahmadu Bello University, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, and eventually 17 other tertiary institutions nationwide.

    Each year, OPay plans to sponsor 400 students across these institutions, investing N120 million annually. Over the next 10 years, this long-term commitment aims to contribute more than N1.2 billion, to significantly amplify OPay’s positive social impact across Nigeria’s academic landscape.

    UI Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale, who expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, said: “We are excited to be pioneers of this project from OPay. This beams a ray of hope to promising youths and helps them focus solely on their academics …

    “On behalf of the University of Ibadan, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to OPay for recognizing and rewarding the exceptional talents of our students. This award not only celebrates the achievements of these 20 undergraduate students but also reflects OPay’s commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.

    “Your support underscores the value of investing in education and inspiring excellence, and we are deeply grateful for this impactful partnership…..”

    Dotun Adekunle, CTO/COO at OPay, said: “OPay is honored to enter a long-term partnership with the University of Ibadan to support Nigeria’s future leaders over the next 10 years. By providing sustained financial support, we aim to help these students dedicate themselves to their studies and achieve their full potential.”

    As a transformative force in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, OPay is deeply committed to driving positive social impact and fostering development within local communities.

    Through these scholarships, OPay will provide essential financial assistance to students distinguished by their academic prowess, innovative thinking, and dedication to community service.

    Tijani Rose, a 200 level Computer Science student, said the scholarship will allow her to focus more on her studies.

    She said: “This was an unexpected but very welcome opportunity. I feel really excited to have been a beneficiary of this scholarship programme.

    “This scholarship will greatly impact my education, by a very large stride. Now, I can take my mind off where the next school fees will come from and can focus on what really matters – my grades and studies.”

    Another recipient from the Nursing Department, Toheeb Adeogun Adetayo expressed gratitude to the payment Opay.

    He said: “I am feeling so happy right now being a beneficiary of OPay’s scholarship. It was so unexpected; I just received the call that I am one of the beneficiaries…. I am very grateful to Opay”

  • OPay leads future of secure payments with BAFI award win

    OPay leads future of secure payments with BAFI award win

    Nigeria’s mobile money platform Opay has been honoured with the ‘Mobile Payment Solutions Provider of the Year’ award at the prestigious 12th annual Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards, hosted by BusinessDay.

    The recognition is a testament to OPay’s continued innovation, commitment to customer satisfaction, and leadership in secure digital payments within Nigeria’s rapidly evolving Financial Technology (fintech) ecosystem.

    It further reinforces OPay’s relentless drive to enhance security and user experience across its suite of financial products and services.

    With a clear focus on protecting its users’ financial integrity, OPay has pioneered innovative multiple security solutions that address key challenges in the digital payments space.

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    One of the platform OPay’s standout innovations is the Large Transaction Shield, which offers an extra layer of protection for users handling high-value transactions.

    By introducing an additional verification step, this solution minimizes the risk of errors and unauthorised transfers, offering peace of mind to users.

    In addition, OPay’s NightGuard feature allows users to restrict access to their accounts during specific hours, further safeguarding them against potential fraudulent activities during vulnerable overnight periods.

    The platform has also made significant strides in accessibility and inclusion by integrating Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes, allowing users to make transactions securely without the need for internet connectivity.

    The seamless, offline transaction capability – coupled with robust security protocols – demonstrates OPay’s commitment to ensuring that financial services are available to all, even in areas with limited internet access.

     “We are incredibly proud to be recognised as the ‘Mobile Payment Solutions Provider of the Year,’” Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Opay, Dotun Adekunle, said

    He stated: “This award and recognition showcases our unwavering commitment to security, innovation, and providing our users with a seamless and safe digital payments experience.

    “At OPay, we believe that providing secure and accessible financial solutions is essential to advancing financial inclusion and empowering individuals and businesses alike.”

    As a licensed and insured financial institution regulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and insured by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), OPay continues to meet and surpass high standards of security and compliance while expanding access to a wide range of financial services.

    OPay’s offerings simplify financial operations for tens of millions of users and merchants across Nigeria.

    Its victory at the BAFI Awards further cements its position as a leader in the fintech industry and highlights its pivotal role in shaping the future of secure and innovative financial solutions in Africa.

  • Lagos, firms partner to empower indigent traders

    Lagos, firms partner to empower indigent traders

    lagos State is partnering Opay and Cowry Wise financial services to make loans available to indigent women traders, Special Adviser to the governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih-Awokoya, has said.

    This, she said, will boost their capital and they can be literate to key into the state’s financial inclusion system.

    Finnih-Awokoya, at a news conference, said it is part of her  mandate to promote human capital by eliminating financial exclusion.

    To benefit, the women must have National Identification Number and Lagos State Resident Registration Agency (LASRRA).

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    She said: “Collaboration is the approach to private partnership, and this is why the SDG approached them. Nevertheless, we invite institutions to join us in this human capital development.

    “Human capital development matters reflect strength of society because it is meant to ensure growth. …”

    Representative of Opay, Adedotun Adekunle, said this is meant to get people into the financial ecosystem.

    “It is what we do, to get many into the financial ecosystem, get them educated and empowered to do business to earn a living,” he said.

    Representative of Cowry Wise, Oyeyinka Oyekan, said the firm’s objective since  2017 is to make savings and investment accessible, regardless of background.

  • OPay provides more security features

    OPay provides more security features

    OPay, one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions, recently unveiled its groundbreaking Large Transaction Shield feature, designed to provide users with unparalleled control and protection over their funds. Recognizing the increasing importance of secure digital transactions, OPay has developed this innovative solution to safeguard users from unauthorized activity. The key component of the Large Transaction Shield is its robust facial recognition authentication, which adds an extra layer of security to high-value transactions.

    Furthermore, the Large Transaction Shield allows users to set personalized limits for single, daily and monthly transfers. This ensures that large or unusual transactions exceeding the user defined limits are subject to additional verification. When a transaction surpasses the preset threshold, users are prompted to confirm their identity through facial verification adding and extra layer of security. This additional layer of facial verification protects users against unauthorized activity, providing them with greater confidence in their financial transactions.

    “We are committed to delivering cutting-edge financial solutions that prioritize user safety and convenience,” said  Dauda Gortring, CEO of OPay. “The Large Transaction Shield is a testament to our dedication to providing a secure and reliable platform for our customers. By requiring facial verification for large transactions, we are further strengthening our defenses against potential fraud and ensuring that every payment is authorized by the rightful account holder.”

    Read Also: OPay launches security features to secure customers’ funds

    The Large Transaction Shield offers a comprehensive suite of benefits, including enhanced security, customization, and convenience. OPay users can rest assured that their funds are protected from unauthorized transactions. Additionally, the feature is designed for users to have the ability to set personalized transaction limits and tailor protection to their specific needs, providing greater control over their finances.

    OPay’s Large Transaction Shield is a significant step forward in securing digital payments and underscores the company’s leadership in the financial sector and commitment to innovation as well as user protection.

    About OPay

    OPay was established in 2018 as a leading financial institution in Nigeria with the mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology. The company offers a wide range of payment services, including money transfer, bill payment, airtime & data purchase, card service, and merchant payments, among others. Renowned for its super-fast experience and reliable network, OPay is licensed by the CBN and insured by the NDIC with the same insurance coverage as commercial banks.

  • Opay strengthens security with night guard feature

    Opay strengthens security with night guard feature

    A leading financial institution, Opay has launched a new feature to enhance the protection and security of users finances.

    The new feature, the Night guard feature is aimed at preventing any breach to users accounts.

    It is a first-of-its-kind functionality in the financial industry, empowering users by significantly enhancing the protection of their finances.

    According to Opay, a surge in illicit financial activities and fraud has necessitated the need for an improved layer of security, and it  is leading the charge with new and innovative features.

    It added that one of the challenges of the financial landscape, as echoed by many consumers, is security, with traditional measures like two-factor verification and PINs serving as primary protective features.

    In a statement, the Chief Executive Officer of OPay Nigeria, Mr. Dauda Gotring, stated, “The Nightguard feature represents a significant advancement in Nigeria’s mobile payment landscape, offering users a robust tool to secure their financial transactions. As the leader in the fintech industry in Nigeria, OPay is committed to placing control firmly in the hands of its customers, ensuring that they have the power to safeguard their finances.”

    Read Also: OPay launches security features to secure customers’ funds

    The  Opay Nightguard assists users in securing their accounts during hours when they are most vulnerable—while they sleep and during certain personal lifestyle periods such as late-night outings, evening social gatherings, and more.

    It  allows users to set a timeframe between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM during which any transfer attempts will require enhanced identity verification. Transfers initiated within this timeframe must pass facial recognition, ensuring that users can prevent unauthorized access to their accounts and funds during the night, providing unparalleled security and peace of mind.

    The effectiveness of the feature underscores OPay’s dedication to customer security and satisfaction. These features are unique to the OPay App and provide compelling reasons for users to download and utilize the platform. For the public, particularly those concerned about phone hacks and the security of their funds, Nightguard offers a strongly resonating benefit—the ability to set up the feature and sleep soundly, knowing their finances are protected.

  • OPay launches security features to secure customers’ funds

    OPay launches security features to secure customers’ funds

    Mobile money platform – Opay – has announced a robust suite of security enhancements aimed at ensuring the security of its customers.

    Its Managing Director Dauda Gotring said the move was in recognition of the critical need to ensure financial security in a world increasingly reliant on digital solutions.

    In a statement, OPay, which operates as a licensed Mobile Money Operator (MMO) by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), said it adheres to the highest regulatory standards.

    Furthermore, user’s deposits are protected by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), offering the same level of insurance coverage as traditional banks.

    This double layer of protection shields users’ hard-earned money against unforeseen circumstances.

    Gotring said beyond regulatory safeguards, OPay has actively developed innovative features to empower users with direct control over their financial security.

    Read Also: User funds are now insured up to N5m under NDIC – OPay

    He said, for instance, that by introducing the *955*131# USSD short code, users can instantly lock their OPay account in case of mobile phone being misplaced or stolen.

    According to him, this swift action can potentially save users from unauthorized transactions and ensure peace of mind.

    Additionally, the *955*132# USSD code grants them immediate control, allowing them to lock their OPay card with a single dial.

    Gotring also said protecting users’ data from phishing attacks and scams is equally crucial hence, it is actively committed to raising user awareness through regular Short Message Service (SMS) and in-app notifications.

    He said: “These reminders emphasise the importance of never disclosing your One-Time Password (OTP), as no OPay staff will ever request it. By empowering users with knowledge, OPay fosters a vigilant community against fraudulent activities.

    “At OPay, users’ financial security is our top priority. By combining comprehensive regulatory compliance, innovative security features, and ongoing user education, we are building a digital banking ecosystem where users can transact with confidence.

    “We have developed a short code to allow users to lock their accounts immediately if their phone or card is misplaced or stolen. So, if this ever happens to our dear users’, they can get a phone and dial #955*131# to lock their account and #955*132# to lock your card immediately without any hassle.”

    Adding another layer of protection, OPay’s advanced fraud detection system actively monitors for suspicious activity. If a potential scam is identified, the system triggers an immediate double-confirmation alert before any transaction occurs.

    This crucial pause empowers users to verify the recipient and transaction details, effectively catching scams in their tracks before any damage is done. It’s like having a vigilant financial guard protecting users in the digital marketplace.