Banking
How FairMoney is Powering the Next Generation of Nigerian SMEs
By James Edeh
SMEs are widely regarded as the engine of economic growth. According to the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), in 2025, Nigerian SMEs continued to anchor the economy, representing approximately 96% of all businesses. These enterprises contributed over 48% to Nigeria’s GDP and accounted for between 84% of total employment. However, while the vast majority of SMEs play a vital role in national development, only a small minority have access to formal credit or the financial literacy required to scale and meet eligibility requirements.
FairMoney Microfinance Bank (MFB), a leading technology-enabled bank in Nigeria, is supporting national financial inclusion objectives and bridging the gap by providing solutions that directly assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It does this not only by providing access to financing but also by offering efficient payment processing options that help SMEs scale up financially.
Access to Capital
Securing a loan through FairMoney MFB offers a streamlined path for Nigerian SMEs to transform potential into performance. By prioritising digital speed and accessibility, the microfinance bank enables eligible business owners in Nigeria to secure up to ₦5,000,000 without physical collateral; however, access remains subject to credit assessment. This rapid disbursement creates a real opportunity for entrepreneurs to act on time-sensitive growth prospects, whether that means restocking inventory ahead of a peak season, fulfilling a sudden large-scale order, or upgrading essential equipment. To improve their eligibility for higher loan amounts, SMEs simply need to increase their engagement with the FairMoney ecosystem; banking and managing finances directly through the app after an initial application using their BVN and business details.
Beyond the Bank Statement
Alternative credit scoring is the engine that allows FairMoney MFB to leverage broader data sets to better inform credit decisions for a wider range of SME customers. FairMoney MFB doesn’t just look at a bank statement; it looks at potential. By utilising Alternative Credit Scoring powered by advanced data analytics and machine learning, FairMoney MFB assesses creditworthiness based on non-traditional data, such as app usage patterns, transaction velocity, and digital footprints – with customer consent and in accordance with Nigerian data protection requirements. This approach opens the door for businesses with limited formal financial histories to access real growth opportunities that were previously out of reach. For the Nigerian SME, this presents the opportunity to scale from small-scale survival to ambitious expansion, securing the funding necessary to innovate and compete based on the real-time strength of their operations.
Smarter Savings
True business growth requires a shift from simple borrowing to disciplined wealth management, and FairMoney MFB empowers SMEs with a suite of specialised products designed to ensure their capital works as hard as they do. Through FairTarget, entrepreneurs can define specific financial milestones, such as purchasing equipment or securing a larger office, and automate their progress toward reaching them. For operational liquidity, FairSave offers a high-interest savings account where funds remain accessible while earning daily interest, while FairLock provides long-term stability by allowing businesses to secure surplus funds at premium interest rates, protecting capital from impulsive spending. Together, these features transform FairMoney MFB from a lender into a comprehensive financial partner to SMEs that fosters both immediate scalability and long-term fiscal health.
POS Systems
FairMoney MFB’s Point of Sale (POS) systems provide Nigerian SMEs with a robust infrastructure to accept online, mobile, and in-person payments seamlessly. By transitioning from a cash-only model to a multi-channel payment system, businesses can significantly reduce operational risks such as theft and accounting errors while expanding their reach to a nationwide customer base. This digital shift unlocks real-life opportunities for growth. A local retailer can move beyond foot traffic to sell to customers across the country via the web, while service providers can offer “Pay with Transfer” or card options that cater to the growing demographic of cashless consumers.
Every digital transaction creates a verifiable financial trail within the FairMoney MFB app, which the bank uses to build a more accurate credit profile for the merchant. This means that simply by making it easier for customers to pay, SMEs could potentially improve their credit profile and gain access to more competitive pricing needed for long-term expansion.
Maintaining detailed financial records has transitioned from a best practice to a regulatory necessity for SMEs. The current landscape, influenced by the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), increasingly values verifiable digital records as a means of supporting eligibility assessments for small business tax holidays. Maintaining such records through record keeping can facilitate compliance with requirements for exemptions, such as the 0% Company Income Tax (CIT) rate for businesses with an annual turnover below ₦100 million. Without accurate, time-stamped digital trails, including structured e-invoices and clear transaction histories, SMEs risk not only losing these vital fiscal reliefs but also facing significantly sharper penalties for late filing or non-compliance.
Beyond tax, streamlined records bridge the information gap that often hinders access to credit; by presenting a “financial compass” of real-time cash flow and profitability, business owners can prove their creditworthiness to partners, turning their compliance into a strategic tool for securing the capital needed to scale in an increasingly formalised market. FairMoney MFB continues to serve as a dynamic partner in an SME’s journey toward long-term scalability and financial stability.
James Edeh is the Head of Compliance at FairMoney Microfinance Bank
By Aduragbemi Omiyale
The chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, has reaffirmed the organisation’s long-term commitment to shareholders, expressing confidence in the company’s strategic positioning, which he said is underpinned by disciplined execution, a diversified business model, a strengthened capital base, and a clear focus on sustainable value creation.
Speaking at the 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the firm on Wednesday, he explained that the temporary suspension of dividend distributions was a consequence of regulatory compliance requirements rather than any deterioration in the group’s financial performance.
Mr Aig-Imoukhuede reaffirmed that the financial institution’s earnings capacity remains strong and that the board’s position reflects adherence to supervisory expectations and prudent capital management principles.
He assured shareholders of the board’s commitment to resuming dividend payments as soon as the relevant regulatory conditions are satisfied, noting that, “Our approach is clear: capital retained today must translate into greater value tomorrow and sustainable returns for our shareholders.”
The Chairman reiterated the strategic imperative underpinning the company’s next phase of growth, saying, “Our strategy, From Scale to Value, reflects the natural evolution of our journey. Scale created opportunity; value creation is how we fully realise it.”
He noted that while the organisation continues to generate strong returns, ensuring that earnings per share consistently exceed the cost of capital remains central to unlocking sustainable shareholder value.
The retired banker also acknowledged the significant unrealised value embedded within the firm’s international subsidiaries and reiterated management’s focus on improving market recognition of that intrinsic value over time.
Commenting on the financial performance of the group in 2025, he said Access Holdings accelerated provisions on legacy and regulatory forbearance credit exposures, resulting in elevated impairment charges.
He explained that the group consciously prioritised balance sheet strength and long-term resilience over short-term earnings optimisation.
“Periods of economic uncertainty often reveal more about an institution than periods of uninterrupted growth. Our focus remains on building a business that is not only growing, but improving in the quality, resilience, and sustainability of its earnings,” he stated.
Last year, the financial services organisation delivered pre-tax profit of N1.007 trillion, underscoring the strength of its diversified platform and expanding earnings base across key markets. Total assets increased to N51.56 trillion, while customer deposits grew strongly, reflecting sustained franchise momentum and deepening customer trust.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A new report highlighting the transformation from a newly established fintech venture into one of Nigeria’s leading payment infrastructure providers has been launched by HabariPay Limited.
The report, known as the HabariPay Impact Report 2025, provides stakeholders with a comprehensive evolution, innovation journey, business performance, and impact of the fintech subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Plc on the digital payments landscape.
The company’s contributions to enabling digital commerce, supporting businesses, strengthening payment infrastructure, and expanding financial access through technology-driven solutions were also captured in the piece.
The HabariPay Impact Report 2025 also highlights the organisation’s strong financial and operational performance, the growth of the Squad platform, and the development of infrastructure that powers payment acceptance, switching, transfers, merchant services, and value-added solutions.
The publication further explores the role of innovation, talent development, and ecosystem partnerships in driving the company’s success.
It showcases HabariPay’s investments in innovation through initiatives such as the Take on Squad Hackathon and the Squad Hackademy, both of which are helping to develop future technology talent and accelerate the creation of practical solutions to real-world challenges.
“As a technology-driven company, we believe that impact extends beyond financial performance. It is reflected in the businesses we enable, the merchants we support, the infrastructure we build, and the opportunities we create for the next generation of innovators.
“The HabariPay Impact Report 2025 captures this journey and demonstrates our commitment to creating sustainable value for customers, partners, and the broader economy,” the Managing Director of HabariPay, Ms Eduofon Japhet, said.
“The HabariPay Impact Report 2025 represents more than a reflection on our achievements; it is a testament to the deliberate investments we have made in building sustainable payment infrastructure, empowering businesses, fostering innovation, and creating long-term value for our stakeholders.
“As we look ahead, we remain committed to expanding our capabilities, deepening our impact, and shaping the future of digital payments through technology-driven solutions that are secure, scalable, and inclusive,” she added.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Some top foreign exhibitors participating in the much-anticipated Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience commencing on Thursday, June 11, 2026, are already in Nigeria.
The four-day event, closing on June 14, will witness participation from notable African fashion brands from Ghana, Sierra Leone, Senegal and the Benin Republic.
Among the international exhibitors confirmed for this year’s edition are Creative Hub Africa and Shades of Class from Sierra Leone, Drame Khadidatou from Senegal, Tampoori from Ghana, and Naylah Collection from the Republic of Benin. Their participation highlights the growing continental appeal of the Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience as a platform for cultural exchange, business collaboration and market access across Africa.
More than 100 exhibitors and vendors, including leading Nigerian brands such as Obida Design Associates, This Is Us, Imani Kids, Ashabi Fads, E25Dresses, Miné by Ejiro Amos Tafiri, Buss Fabrics Store, Aina Aladire and many others, will participate, showcasing the richness of African craftsmanship, innovation and entrepreneurship.
It was gathered that organisers are putting finishing touches to the venue of the exhibition, the prestigious Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Victoria Island, Lagos.
All necessary arrangements to ensure a seamless, secure and memorable experience for exhibitors and attendees are being put in place by the bank, further underscoring its commitment to promoting African creativity, entrepreneurship and intra-African trade.
The Head of SMEs, Partnerships and Collaborations at Ecobank Nigeria, Mrs Omoboye Odu, said attendees can look forward to a vibrant showcase of fashion, craftsmanship, art, music, culture and entrepreneurship, with participants drawn from Nigeria and several other African countries.
“We are fully prepared and excited to welcome guests from across Nigeria and the African continent to another edition of the Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience. From exhibition spaces and cultural showcases to networking opportunities and customer engagement activities, every necessary arrangement has been put in place to ensure a seamless and rewarding experience for all attendees,” she stated.
“The Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience continues to evolve as a unique platform that connects creatives, entrepreneurs and consumers from across Africa. Attendees can look forward to exceptional products, interactive sessions, entertainment, cultural exhibitions and valuable opportunities to build relationships, explore new markets and expand their businesses,” Mrs Odu added.
Beyond the exhibition, participants will have opportunities to network, explore business partnerships, discover unique products and experience the diversity and vibrancy of African culture.
The event is open to the public, and visitors can look forward to an immersive experience that seamlessly blends tradition, innovation, fashion, enterprise and entertainment in a grand celebration of Africa’s creative economy.
Over the years, the Ecobank Adire Lagos Experience has grown into one of Nigeria’s foremost platforms for promoting indigenous textile production, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and showcasing the ingenuity of African creatives.
The programme has also played a significant role in expanding market access for businesses while preserving and celebrating Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
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