NIBSS, banks up advocacy on use of e-payment platforms

The Nigeria Interbank Settlement Scheme (NIBSS) and deposit money banks have urged Nigerians to embrace e-payment platforms as the best option for payments of business transactions. 

  The appeal, which is part of the renewed awareness campaign aimed at enlightening the public on the benefits of e-payment, may have become necessary as the nationwide rollout of the cash-less project by July 1, 2014, is fast approaching. 

  The e-payment platforms like Point of Sale (POS) and Instant Payment, among others, have been promoted for assessed convenience, safety and receipt of instant value, facilitating payments for transactions through ATM cards, mobile phones, laptops, desktops, notebooks and I-Pads.

  Already, banks in conjunction with NIBSS have commenced a communication awareness campaign to enlighten Nigerians on the benefits of these e-payment platforms, encouraging their usage and adoption.

  According to a statement from the Head, Corporate Communications, NIBSS, Lilian Phido, the need to embrace the e-payment platforms was due to its safety, reliability and efficiency offerings, coupled with the attendant security issues associated with cash transactions.

 “There is also need to embrace the e-payment platforms because they have become globally acceptable means for financial transactions.

 “The e-payment platforms enhance greater penetration and accessibility to financial services by the unbanked and under-banked populace and can be enhanced with improved infrastructure,” Phido said.

  The statement added that the on-going media campaign for the new payment platform will be complemented by the use of consumer engagement activities- road shows, one-on-one contact marketing, digital and online advertising.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola