AfriGO, Nigeria’s National Domestic Card Scheme, has entered a strategic partnership with Touch and Pay Technologies to introduce NFC-enabled and chip-enabled Cowry/AfriGO cards, poised to revolutionise payment transactions in the country's transportation sector.
Backed by SafeHaven Microfinance Bank (MFB) as the issuing bank, this initiative will offer commuters across Nigeria a secure, contactless payment solution that functions in both online and offline environments. These cards are set to transform how Nigerians pay for transportation services on roads, trains and waterways.
The introduction of Cowry/AfriGO cards offers the transportation sector a robust, digital payment option that improves operational efficiency, reduces risk of fraud and enhances customer convenience. By automating fare collection and reconciliation processes, the partnership aims to lower operational costs for transport providers while simultaneously increasing speed and service quality for passengers. The use of NFC technology allows for quick, contactless transactions, improving the commuting experience by reducing reliance on cash and long queues at transport hubs.
This collaboration aligns with the push for a more digital economy, promoting financial inclusion and digital payment adoption across underserved sectors. The cards will not only enhance transparency but will also foster the collection of vital data to support better decision-making within both government and private transport sectors.
The Managing Director & CEO of Afrigopay Financial Services Limited (AFSL), Ebehijie Momoh, commented on the partnership: “Amid Nigeria's rapid electronic payment growth, this partnership represents another significant milestone for the nation through AfriGO Card. It reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering innovative, world-class solutions that meet the evolving needs of our people. By integrating NFC and chip-enabled technology into the Cowry/AfriGO card, we are providing a secure, reliable and efficient payment solution tailored to Nigeria's unique transportation challenges. This value-added service underscores our broader mission to drive financial inclusion, reduce reliance on cash and enhance the everyday financial experience for Nigerians while improving access to digital financial services across all regions. Additionally, this solution is pivotal in revolutionising transportation across Africa. AfriGO is proud to contribute to the creation of a robust digital economy that benefits all citizens, aligns with government policies, and ultimately strengthens our nation’s position within the global financial ecosystem.”
On his part, Olamide Afolabi, CEO of Touch and Pay Technologies added,
“This partnership marks an important milestone for both Cowry and the entire transportation sector in Nigeria. We are taking the Cowry Card to the next level by enabling payments without limitations, allowing Africans to make secure, seamless transactions in both online and offline environments. The integration of NFC and chip-enabled technology through the AfriGO collaboration will drive financial inclusion, ease of use, and increased efficiency. This is not just a technological advancement—it's a step forward in transforming how payments are made in transportation across Africa.”
Drawing inspiration from similar initiatives such as the UK's Oyster Card and Hong Kong’s Octopus Card, the Cowry/AfriGO cards aim to improve service efficiency, enhance security and promote a more digital society. This partnership also demonstrates AfriGO and Cowry Card Technology’s commitment to positioning Nigeria at the forefront of digital payment solutions for the transportation industry.
About AfriGO Card:
AfriGO, Nigeria’s national domestic card scheme, is designed to empower businesses and consumers with a comprehensive suite of payment solutions, including debit, credit, pre paid, virtual, loyalty, Zakat and tokenised cards. Beyond facilitating traditional transactions, AfriGO plays a key role in promoting government payments, enhancing identity management and driving payments across critical sectors such as transportation, health, hospitality and agriculture. By reducing reliance on foreign exchange, AfriGO strengthens local capacity, fosters the development of homegrown expertise and creates new opportunities within the growing card business ecosystem in Nigeria. This initiative supports financial inclusion and promotes sustainable economic growth.
About Cowry Card Technology
Cowry Card Technology, a product of Touch and Pay Technologies, was launched in 2017 to enhance payment systems for mobility services in Lagos. With a focus on contactless NFC technology, Cowry cards allow commuters to pay for bus, train, and ferry rides quickly and conveniently. The system currently supports over 3.8 million users, facilitating around 500,000 trip payments daily. This initiative helps reduce cash transactions, protect stakeholders’ investments, and enhance commuter safety across Lagos’ transport networks.
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