Brands/Products

Buy Now Pay Later Isn’t Just About Increasing Retail Sales, it’s Also a Form of Financial Inclusion

Published

2 years ago

31/01/2024

By Eric Muli

It’s no secret that there’s still a long way to go when it comes to achieving true financial inclusion in Africa. As recently as 2021, 45% of people in sub-Saharan Africa didn’t have access to a formal bank account.

That doesn’t just make it difficult for them to save effectively, but also to access formal lines of credit.

The thing is, when most people talk about financial exclusion and the proposed solutions to it, they tend to focus on the “big” economic movers that come with financial inclusion.

A lot of attention, for example, is given to affordable home and vehicle financing and business and education loans. That’s understandable too: those are all vital tools in helping people advance economically.

But financial inclusion can’t be limited to those big-ticket items. It must also cover many of the day-to-day purchases that people in other markets take for granted. We cannot, after all, talk about real financial inclusion if someone can access a business loan but still has to approach informal lenders to pay for their child’s school uniforms and stationery.

It’s why the rise of “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) services in Africa is so important. These services allow people to purchase items and choose to pay for them over a specified period, typically in instalments with low interest rates.

Unlike lay-by offerings, people are allowed to take possession of their goods immediately. While these offerings are most visible online, they’re increasingly common in physical retail spaces too.

A personal journey

There are many examples of how BNPL can empower ordinary Africans by enhancing their purchasing power. Maybe it’s someone needing to buy a new suit for a job interview, a promising athlete needing a new pair of running spikes as they look to secure a university scholarship, or someone needing to buy a laptop to start their side hustle.

Sometimes (as I discovered myself when I returned to Kenya in 2017 after studying in the USA), it’s just about staying connected. As I trawled the malls of Nairobi looking to buy a phone (something few of us can live without), I realised that very few stores had the option to pay off a device in instalments. It came as a stark contrast to the US, where instalment plans are available almost everywhere.

But it was also a lightbulb moment that inspired the founding of Lipa Later. I realised how effective BNPL could be in the Kenyan and broader African contexts, particularly if it was adapted to the way Africans shop.

That vision was further crystallised in the early days of the business when my co-founder Michael Maina spent hours walking around malls, speaking to shoppers. Many, he found out, wanted a specific phone that was just out of reach but which they could easily pay off over a few months.

BNPL for predominantly offline markets

While many of us are familiar with BNPL in e-commerce contexts, we knew that launching an e-commerce-only BNPL product would have limited efficacy in an African context. Even in a country as renowned for embracing technology as Kenya, online made up just 4% of all retail sales in 2021 (the most recent year for which I could find figures).

But getting physical retailers on board with the concept wasn’t always easy. In the early days especially, there were a lot more noes than yeses. Nonetheless, we persisted because we knew that, implemented correctly, the BNPL solution we were building could be a “lifeline for a lifetime” for both our retailer and consumer customers.

As a result, today, we have a BNPL offering that works as effectively in offline physical retail settings as it does online. And because we’ve taken an attitude that everything about Lipa Later, from the name (Lipa is Swahili for “pay”) to the technology, should be tailored for Africa, we’ve been able to expand beyond Kenya into Uganda and Rwanda.

We also welcome the growing competition in the African BNPL space, not only because it’s pushed us to keep improving our own offering (a partnership with Mastercard means that we’ll soon be rolling out the first buy now, pay later card in Africa, for example) but also because it’ll help advance financial inclusion across Africa.

An increasingly important financial inclusion tool

While BNPL can’t eliminate debt entirely, it can make a dent in it, and with nearly 60% of Kenyans living in debt and similarly high numbers across many countries on the continent, its role will only become increasingly important.

Without having to resort to expensive informal lenders, customers can save more of their money or use it on things that improve their lives, rather than simply servicing debt. As operators become mature and innovative (rewarding the best-paying customers with even lower interest rates, for example), its value will keep growing

But consumers aren’t the only ones who benefit from this expanded financial inclusion. Retailers also benefit from increased customer bases. Those increased sales, in turn, can lead to expansion and even contribute to national economic growth.

So, as important as more traditional forms of financial inclusion are, it’s important to remember that consumer spending power is a critical component of financial inclusion, too. Tailored effectively to African realities, there are few more powerful instruments for improving that spending power than BNPL.

Eric Muli is the Founder and CEO of Lipa Later

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Sell Gift Cards in Nigeria Safely: Why Migo-Sell Gift Cards Is Becoming a Trusted Gift Card Trading Platform

Published

7 days ago

07/01/2026

Dipo Olowookere

As digital payments continue to expand across Africa, gift card trading has become one of the most practical ways for users in Nigeria and Ghana to convert digital value into cash. From Apple Gift Cards and Amazon Gift Cards to Steam, Google Play, and gaming-related cards, many users now prefer to sell gift card online to meet daily financial needs.

However, despite strong demand, the gift card exchange market in Nigeria still faces long-standing challenges. Delayed payments, unclear pricing, inconsistent verification standards, and increasing fraud cases have made trust the single most important factor when choosing a gift card trading platform.

Against this background, Migo – Sell Gift Cards is positioning itself as a more structured and reliable gift card trading app, focused on transparency, controlled verification, and predictable payouts rather than exaggerated promises.

Rising Demand, but Trust Remains the Industry’s Weak Point

For many users, converting gift cards to cash is no longer optional. While international gift cards are widely used for online shopping, subscriptions, and digital entertainment, not all Nigerian users can spend them directly within the local financial system.

As a result, redeeming gift cards for cash in Nigeria has become common practice. Yet user complaints across the market reveal recurring issues: hidden deductions, unstable gift card rates, rejected cards without explanation, and payouts that take far longer than expected.

Migo – Sell Gift Cards was developed after examining these weaknesses across the industry. Rather than competing solely on speed or headline rates, the platform aims to deliver consistency—clear rules, visible pricing, and realistic processing timelines.

Supporting High-Demand Gift Cards in Nigeria and Ghana

User demand in the Nigerian gift card market is highly diverse. Instead of limiting transactions to only a few brands, Migo – Sell Gift Cards supports a wide range of gift cards that are actively traded across Nigeria and Ghana, including:

Apple Gift Card, Amazon Gift Card, Steam Gift Card, Google Play Gift Card, Razer Gold Gift Card, Xbox Gift Card, PlayStation Gift Card, Roblox Gift Card, Vanilla Gift Card, Walmart MoneyCard, Target Gift Card, Macy’s Gift Card, Best Buy, GameStop, Nike Gift Card, Foot Locker Gift Card, Sephora Gift Card, Nordstrom, Coach Gift Card, Dollar General, NetSpend, Lowe’s, Paysafe Card, MoneyPak, American Express (Amex), go2bank, and One4All.

This broad coverage allows users to sell gift cards in Nigeria on a single platform, reducing the risks associated with switching between multiple gift card exchange services.

Controlled Speed Instead of Risky “Instant” Claims

In the gift card trading industry, “instant cashout” is often promoted but rarely explained. In practice, unverified speed frequently leads to disputes, failed payouts, or account restrictions.

Migo – Sell Gift Cards adopts a controlled processing approach, combining automated systems with manual verification to assess gift cards based on brand, type, and risk level. Once verification is completed, payouts are processed in Nigerian Naira (NGN) or Ghanaian Cedi (GHS).

This method prioritizes reliability and user protection while still aiming for timely cashouts within reasonable and clearly communicated timeframes.

Transparent Gift Card Rates in Nigeria

One of the biggest concerns for users is gift card rates in Nigeria, which can fluctuate frequently based on market conditions. Migo – Sell Gift Cards addresses this by displaying the available exchange rate before a user confirms a transaction.

Whether users want to sell Apple Gift Card, sell Steam Gift Card,sell macy’s gift card or trade other brands, pricing is visible upfront. Once a rate is accepted and verification is completed, there are no unexpected deductions, helping users better predict their final payout.

Simple and Consistent Trading Process

To make online gift card trading accessible to both new and experienced users, Migo – Sell Gift Cards keeps its workflow straightforward:

Create an account (https://www.migogiftcard.com)
Select the gift card type
Submit gift card details or images
Verification process
Cash payout

This consistent structure reduces errors, improves clarity, and supports both first-time users and frequent traders.

Raising Standards in a High-Risk Digital Market

As Nigeria’s digital finance ecosystem grows, competition among gift card trading platforms is shifting away from speed alone toward risk management, transparency, and user communication.

Migo – Sell Gift Cards states that its long-term goal goes beyond completing transactions. By maintaining clear rules, stable execution, and responsive customer support, the platform aims to contribute to higher standards across the Nigeria gift card exchange industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Migo – Sell Gift Cards and how does it work?

Migo- Sell Gift Cards is a digital gift card trading platform that allows users in Nigeria and Ghana to sell gift cards online and receive cash payouts after verification.

Is Migo – Sell Gift Cards a legitimate gift card trading platform in Nigeria?

Yes. Migo – Sell Gift Cards operates with structured verification procedures, transparent pricing, and consistent payout rules designed to reduce fraud and failed transactions.

What types of gift cards can I sell on Migo – Sell Gift Cards?

Migo – Sell Gift Cards supports Apple, Amazon, Steam, Google Play, Razer Gold, Xbox, PlayStation, Roblox, Vanilla Visa, Walmart MoneyCard, Target, Macy’s, Best Buy, GameStop, Nike, Foot Locker, Sephora, Nordstrom, Coach, Dollar General, NetSpend, Lowe’s, Paysafe Card, MoneyPak, Amex, go2bank, and One4All.

How fast is payment after selling a gift card?

Payment speed depends on the gift card type and verification process. Once verified, payouts are processed in NGN or GHS as quickly as possible while maintaining security.

Does Migo – Sell Gift Cards offer instant cashout?

Migo – Sell Gift Cards focuses on reliable and predictable cashouts. Some transactions are faster than others, but all go through verification to protect users.

How are gift card rates determined in Nigeria?

Rates depend on brand, demand, card type, and risk level. Migo – Sell Gift Cards shows the available rate before transaction confirmation, with no hidden deductions after verification.

Is it safe to sell gift cards online on Migo – Sell Gift Cards?

Selling gift cards online carries risk, but Migo – Sell Gift Cards reduces this through a combination of automated systems and manual review to improve transaction safety.

Who can use Migo – Sell Gift Cards?

Migo – Sell Gift Cards currently serves users in Nigeria and Ghana.

About Migo – Sell Gift Cards

Migo – Sell Gift Cards is a digital gift card trading app serving users in Nigeria and Ghana. The platform focuses on secure verification, transparent pricing, and reliable cash payouts, helping users safely convert gift cards into cash through a structured and trustworthy process.

Website: https://www.migogiftcard.com

iOS Download Link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/migo-sell-gift-cards/id6670494373

Playstore Download Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.antwallet.giftcard

Brands/Products

DStv, GOtv to Retain CNN, Cartoon Network, 10 Others After Last Minute Deal

Published

2 weeks ago

01/01/2026

Adedapo Adesanya

By Adedapo Adesanya

Canal+ and Warner Bros. Discovery have signed a new multi-year, multi-territory agreement to strengthen their partnership internationally that will scrap the exit plans of channels like CNN International and Cartoon Network on pay television services -DStv and GOtv.

The last minute agreement reached on December 31, 2025, means 12 channels at risk of being yank off, including Discovery, CNN, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, Food Network, HGTV, Investigation Discovery, and Cartoon Network, will remain on both DStv and GOtv.

According to a statement by Canal+ yesterday, the deal between the two broadcasting giants spans multiple territories, including South Africa, the rest of Africa and regions in Europe where Canal+ also has operations.

Canal+ said: “This expanded agreement covers both the distribution of HBO Max and the renewal of several Warner Bros Discovery thematic channels across numerous regions.”

The announcement comes as a relief to DStv subscribers, who received notices via email and on-screen warnings from December 1, 2025, stating that the channels in question could be removed from their bouquets since contractual negotiations between Canal+ and Warner Bros Discovery had reached an impasse.

Regions outside Africa also affected by the new deal include Romania, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where Cartoon Network, Cartoonito and CNN International have been renewed.

Other Warner Bros channels renewed in European regions not available in Africa include Warner TV, Cinemax and TVN.

“Canal+ and its longstanding partner, Warner Bros Discovery, are pleased to announce the signing of a new multi-year and multi-territory agreement, marking a major milestone in the development of their collaboration on an international scale,” Canal+ stated.

The agreement between WBD and the French media group builds upon previous deals made in 2024, including the renewal of the exclusive pay-TV window for Warner Bros. Pictures films six months after their theatrical release in France and the integration of HBO Max within select Canal+ group offers.

It also comes during Netflix’s pending purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery, which could further position Canal+ as a power player on the global stage as the company already has distribution deals in place with Netflix.

Brands/Products

JMG Installs Solar Power Systems at Three NIPCO Fuel Stations

Published

3 weeks ago

23/12/2025

Aduragbemi Omiyale

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Nigeria’s trusted hybrid and integrated electromechanical energy provider, JMG Limited, has completed the installation of solar power systems at three key fuel stations of NIPCO Plc.

The clean energy source was installed at NIPCO’s petrol dispensing outlets in Gwagwalada Abuja, Lekki Lagos, and Mpape Abuja.

This will help the organisation eliminate diesel reliance, and unlock more than N44 million in annual energy cost savings.

The installations feature advanced hybrid systems, combining solar arrays, lithium battery storage, and smart inverters to provide 24/7 energy for fuel pumps, lighting, and office operations. Each site has reported zero use of electricity or generator power since the systems were installed.

The three NIPCO stations now run on an advanced hybrid solar system that combines high‑efficiency PV panels, intelligent lithium‑battery storage and smart inverters.

Since commissioning, the sites have operated with zero grid or generator power, providing silent, clean, uninterrupted electricity for pumps, lighting and administration.

“We are proud to help NIPCO lead the energy transition at the retail level.

“The scalable architecture can be sized to each location and has already delivered significant savings, about 88,535 kWh/year, N44.4 million in annual cost savings and a 43.8‑tonne reduction in CO₂ emissions,” the Head of JMG’s Hybrid Solar Division, Mr Abbass Hussein, stated, adding that, “Collaborating with NIPCO on this initiative demonstrates a practical pathway for other firms to reduce both emissions and energy expenses.”

Also commenting, NIPCO’s Station Manager at Gwagwalada, Mr Idoko Jacob, said, “The stations have not relied on electricity or generator power on bright-weather days since commissioning. The solar systems fully meet our daily energy needs during such periods. On days with poor weather, we supplement the solar system with generator power to ensure uninterrupted operations.”

Business Post gathered that the NIPCO Gwagwalada Station has a solar output of 42,450 kWh/year, annual savings of N15.6 million, and CO₂ reduction of 15,332.76 kg/year, with a system installed consisting of a 20kW Deye LV Hybrid Inverter, 26.8kWp Solar PV, and 51.2kWh Lithium Battery Storage.

The NIPCO Lekki Station has a solar output of 3,635 kWh/year, annual savings of N12 million, and CO₂ reduction of 13,130.1 kg/year, with a system installed consisting of a 25kW Must Hybrid Inverter, 22.95kWp Solar PV, and 76.8kWh Lithium Battery Storage.

As for the NIPCO Mpape Station, it has a solar output of 42,450 kWh/year, annual savings of N16.8 million, and CO₂ reduction of 15,332.76 kg/year, with a system installed consisting of a 20kW Deye LV Hybrid Inverter, 26.8kWp Solar PV, and 61.44kWh Lithium Battery Storage.