By Jimoh Babatunde

A new naira-denominated payment card targeted at tourists and visitors coming into Nigeria during the peak holiday season has been rolled out by Verve and Providus Bank .

 Called the ProvidusVerve Travel Card, the product is positioned as a convenient alternative for tourists, business travellers and returning diaspora, who may otherwise struggle with cash withdrawals or currency conversion on arrival.

According to both organisations, the travel card will allow users to make payments for transportation, accommodation, dining, shopping and entertainment across Nigeria. It will also function on select global digital platforms that accept Verve. 

The companies say this feature will help travellers retain access to familiar services during their visit.

Verve and Providus Bank argue that the card aligns with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s ongoing cashless policy by reducing reliance on physical currency and lowering risks associated with theft or loss. 

Paul Ohakim, Vice-President for Issuing and Acquiring Management (Africa) at Verve International, described the card as a practical response to common pain points. “We have created a product that eliminates the friction traditionally associated with accessing local payments,” he said.

Ademola Adeniran, Divisional Head of Product Management and Solution Delivery at Interswitch, added that the partnership reflects a broader push to make digital payments easier for international visitors.

Industry analysts note that while the card could ease transactions for visitors, its effectiveness will depend on real-world acceptance, consumer awareness, and the ability of the payment network to handle increased traffic during the festive season. Nigeria’s tourism sector, which continues to develop, may benefit from solutions that simplify visitor spending, though systemic issues such as infrastructure gaps and inconsistent connectivity remain significant hurdles.

As the country prepares for an influx of holiday travellers, the launch of the ProvidusVerve Travel Card adds a new option to Nigeria’s growing digital payments landscape, offering potential benefits but also facing the test of practical implementation.