E-Business
There’s a Line Between e-Payment and Mobile Payment-Moroney
Sean Moroney, is chairman of Aitec Africa, whose core business since 1987 has been focussed on ICT publishing, event management, professional development and training in Africa.
Moroney’s company has been market-leading pioneer in terms of spreading knowledge on the Internet, computing and telecommunications across most of English-speaking Africa.
He spoke to hilary okeke on the forthcoming Aitec banking and payment technology conference and other issues.
Aitec Banking and Payment Technology Conference
Aitec Banking and Payment Technology Conference is a platform where experts in banking technology from Nigeria, South Africa, U.K and other parts of the world, come together to share their knowledge with the professionals and managers that attend the conference. Last year we had over 400 delegates attending the conference. In parallel with the conference, we have the exhibition which is the marketing showcase for the industry. Here, we see the latest technologies for the banking and financial services sector under one roof, providing a competitive situation where the banks and other potential buyers of the products can compare and actually quiz the companies that are on display about the services they are providing.
Major Achievements
The Banking and Payment Technology Conference has transformed the development of the financial credit sector from one that is rather traditional and colonial in perspective, to one that is now more outward looking, more inclusive and providing services for the unbanked. The problem that the conference has is that the vast majority of the populace still remains unbanked. They do not have basic financial services in order to transfer funds; in order to get money from one part of the country to another and also to be able to save their funds securely. The mobile banking phenomenon has hit East Africa in a big way and it is expected in this part soon. That would be a major focus of this year’s conference – Mobile Banking or what we call Branchless Banking. So, that has been the major achievement of the conference, providing a forum where new developments that are rapidly evolving can be deliberated.
Nigeria Ripe for e-Payment
Definitely! I think one needs to draw a line between e-payment and mobile payment. The former is facilitated by the Internet. I think the infrastructure is not well developed, in that way a lot of people do not have access to the Internet. For mobile payment, we are going to see huge increases in terms of volumes. Because there is rapid roll out of mobile telephony in the country, one can now leverage on that infrastructure and develop mobile banking.
Potential of Branchless Banking in Nigeria
Well, the potential is limitless. It still boils down to leveraging on the mobile networks, and there is big potential. You can use the mobile networks to transfer from user-to-user; you can also deploy wireless systems with mobile devices to function in the rural areas. At this moment, we have thousands of agents vending mobile scratch cards. Those agents can be trained and upgraded to actually become bank agents and can be in charge of certain transactions. So, the opportunities are boundless.
Role of Telecommunications in Mobile Banking
Telecommunication networks provide the backbone of the mobile banking system. In Kenya for example, on the M-pesa system there are millions of customers making fund transfers through the mobile system. The time has come for the banks to partner with mobile operators to provide these services because they have the proper banking expertise and experience in order to provide customers with the security and professionalism they need using mobile banking; whereas the mobile operators are more experienced in the infrastructure aspect. There is the need for partnership between the two sectors in order to provide effective mobile banking services.
Replicating M-pesa’s Success in Nigeria
Of course it could, but the right regulatory environment needs to be put in place. The Central Bank is grappling with that at the moment. Moneybox has been given mobile banking licence, which indicates some progress. I think we are on the eve of another banking revolution in Nigeria and we will see millions of people making use of their mobile phones for banking transactions.
Microfinance Banks and Mobile Banking
That is an important focus of this year’s conference – it includes the microfinance institutions. The conference, which would be in partnership with CGAP, EFIna and the World Bank, is going to focus on fashioning out ways in which these new technologies and new ideas can be utilized by the microfinance institutions. One of the sessions would be “Linking MFIs, Banks and payment Providers: What are the Obstacles in Nigeria?” So, we are going to look at what the problems are and what are the solutions. That would be a major focus of the conference – to find a way around to actualizing the benefits of these new developments.
Place of the Unbanked in the Branchless Banking Scenario
The unbanked are the target audience. The key untapped market out there needs low cost banking solution to be able to transfer funds from one point to another; a low cost solution to be able to invest their funds effectively, as well as access micro loans to develop their businesses. That is very critical in a branchless banking system that is based on telecoms networks.
Issues at this Year’s Event
They include latest software developments for ATMs. We will be looking at e-channels for microfinance banking, and the major focus will be on security issues. As we speak about mobile banking, security is a major problem. So, we would be looking at solutions in terms of security. We would be addressing ATM software trends for 2009/10, contact centres in banking, matters arising in Islamic banking, among others. In the exhibitions, we have a number of South African countries participating and we would be seeing a lot of cutting-edge technologies.
E-Business
inq. Nigeria Celebrates Double Win at Tech Innovation Awards (TIA) 2024
inq. Nigeria, the leading provider of Edge technology solutions in Nigeria, has achieved a remarkable double win at the 8th annual Technology Innovation Awards (TIA).
Known for delivering innovative, business-relevant solutions in Edge AI and IoT, SDN/NFV for Edge Cloud, Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), and Elastic Edge, inq. Nigeria was honoured as the “MVNO Provider of the Year” and received the “Cloud Product of the Year” award for its groundbreaking product, inq.Fabric.
The TIA Awards, one of the most prestigious accolades in the tech industry, celebrates exceptional individuals and organisations at the forefront of digital transformation. This year, inq. Nigeria was acknowledged for its comprehensive impact on the Nigerian tech landscape and its commitment to innovation.
The MVNO Provider of the Year award highlights inq. Nigeria’s leadership in delivering flexible, high-performance MVNO services in an emerging market.
Through its adaptable network platform, inq. empowers licensed MVNO providers with seamless, scalable connectivity solutions for data-driven applications and IoT, bypassing traditional infrastructure needs. This enables them to meet critical network demands and integrate efficiently across diverse environments in Nigeria’s evolving market.
The Cloud Product of the Year award celebrates inq. Nigeria’s inq.Fabric, a pioneering cloud connectivity solution that automates provisioning and routing for cloud access. This software-defined networking solution provides secure, agile, and reliable connectivity, supporting rapid deployment and scalability, which is critical for multinationals, government bodies, and SMEs in Nigeria.
Reflecting on this achievement, Ifeanyi Akosionu, Managing Director of Anglophone West Africa, inq. Nigeria, expressed his gratitude, stating, “These awards reflect our commitment to excellence and innovation. At inq., we are dedicated to continuously advancing our solutions, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth by empowering businesses to thrive.”
He highlighted inq.’s leadership in supporting Nigeria’s emerging MVNO industry, noting, “Our MVNO solutions equip licensed providers with the agility, tools, and support needed to enter the market confidently and succeed in a dynamic landscape.” Akosionu also acknowledged Fabric by inq., which offers a flexible, cloud-based environment designed to boost productivity and streamline decision-making for clients.
Akosionu attributed inq.’s success to its close partnerships with a diverse clientele, whose collaboration inspired the development of forward-thinking solutions that address critical needs in connectivity and digital transformation across Nigeria.
Akosionu also extended appreciation to inq.’s dedicated team, saying, “Our thanks go to our valued customers for their trust and to our team at inq. Nigeria, whose dedication ensures that we consistently deliver world-class solutions.”
Previously, at the 7th edition of the TIA Awards, inq. Nigeria also received recognition as “IoT Solutions Provider of the Year” and “Digital Services Provider of the Year”, further solidifying its leadership in digital and IoT solutions.
E-Business
NDPC Partners Adeoluwa, Digital Influencer on Protection Awareness
Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to promote data protection and privacy awareness in Nigeria by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Enioluwa Adeoluwa, renowned social media influencer.
This partnership aims to harness the power of social media to educate Nigerians on the importance of data protection and privacy.
The MoU, which will last for six months and is subject to renewal, is also aimed at creating a safer digital landscape for all Nigerians.
Speaking in Abuja, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, national commissioner, NDPC, stressed that with over 40 million Nigerians using social media daily, data protection and privacy have become crucial concerns.
He noted that this number highlights the immense importance of safeguarding personal information in Nigeria’s digital landscape.
“The Nigerian government is really taking this up to ensure that Nigerians are protected. More importantly, we know that about 40 million Nigerians go online every day, which is significant considering there are about 120 million people in total. That is huge. For this reason, we have to ensure adequate measures for safety to safeguard the data within our country.
“And Nigerians know their rights under the Nigeria Data Protection Laws and understand the kind of measures they need to implement to protect their data,” he stated.
Dr. Olatunji explained that the MoU was signed to increase awareness about data protection and privacy in Nigeria, helping individuals understand their privacy rights and ensuring that data controllers and processors are aware of their obligations.
The National Commissioner emphasised that, with Enioluwa’s social media following, this partnership will aid in educating the public about the Commission’s mandate and in advancing its roadmap for awareness creation.
“This partnership with Enioluwa Adeoluwa marks a significant milestone in our efforts to promote data protection and privacy awareness in Nigeria. We believe that social media has the power to shape public discourse and influence behaviour, and we’re excited to leverage this platform to drive positive change,” Olatunji said.
On his part, Adeoluwa emphasised that his motivation for collaborating with the Commission is not driven by financial gain, but rather by a desire to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development. He encouraged more young people to participate in nation-building to ensure that Nigeria can become great again.
The Nigeria Data Protection Act, which established the Commission, was signed into law on June 12, 2023, by President Bola Tinubu.
Since then, the Commission, led by Dr. Olatunji, has been working actively to ensure that every Nigerian understands his or her privacy rights.
The Commission’s mandate includes protecting the rights of data subjects, promoting data protection best practices, and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
E-Business
How to Choose the Best Site to Convert BTC to Naira: The Key Features to Consider
Converting Bitcoin (BTC) to Naira has become increasingly popular in Nigeria, and choosing the right platform for this task can make a big difference in maximising your returns while keeping your funds secure.
With numerous options available, it’s essential to know which features set a great BTC-to-Naira conversion site apart from the rest. This guide breaks down the key features you should look for and includes a trusted recommendation: Breet.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Site to Convert BTC to Naira
1. Security and Trustworthiness
Security should be the top priority when choosing a BTC-to-Naira conversion platform. A reputable site should have strict security measures, such as SSL encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and continuous monitoring for suspicious activity. To ensure the platform’s legitimacy, verify that it’s licensed or regulated.
2. Conversion Rates
Getting the best possible conversion rate means more Naira in your pocket. Rates can vary across platforms, so it’s worth comparing them to get the most value for your BTC. However, be mindful of platforms that advertise unusually high rates, as they may come with hidden fees or tricky terms.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to the platform’s fee structure. Some may charge a flat fee, while others take a percentage, which can significantly impact your earnings.
3. Transaction Speed
In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency, timing is crucial. A platform that offers quick processing times can help you secure the rate you want and avoid delays due to market fluctuations. Some platforms offer instant transactions, which is ideal if you need immediate access to your funds.
Pro Tip: If speed is a priority, look for platforms with a reputation for quick confirmation times and real-time processing.
4. Ease of Use
Not everyone using a BTC-to-Naira service is a crypto expert, so an intuitive interface can make the process stress-free. A clean, user-friendly layout ensures you can navigate the site or app with ease, regardless of your crypto experience.
Bonus Tip: A mobile app can be a game-changer, allowing you to convert BTC to Naira from anywhere, anytime. Don’t forget to check for accessible and responsive customer support, as they’ll be crucial if you have questions or run into issues.
5. Payment Methods Available
The best BTC-to-Naira platforms offer direct Naira bank transfers, which allow you to receive your funds without hassle. Verify if the platform has daily or weekly withdrawal limits that fit your intended transaction size. This ensures you won’t run into unwanted restrictions when it’s time to withdraw your funds.
6. Transaction Fees and Limits
Be sure to check each platform’s transaction fees. A flat fee might be more beneficial for smaller transactions, while a percentage-based fee might be better for larger transfers. Additionally, make sure the withdrawal and daily limits meet your needs.
7. Reputation and Community Trust
Word of mouth and community endorsement go a long way in the crypto world. Platforms with high ratings from seasoned users in forums or social media groups are often reliable. Look for transparency in their terms and policies, and be cautious of any red flags, such as rates that seem too good to be true or a lack of user reviews.
Recommended Site to Convert BTC to Naira: The Breet App
After reviewing several options, Breet stands out as a highly recommended site to convert 1btc to naira today. Here’s why:
- Competitive Rates: Breet offers competitive conversion rates with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
- Zero Trading Fees: Breet doesn’t charge a transaction fee, so you can perform as many transactions as you want, all at no cost to you.
- Instant Naira Payouts: The platform ensures fast, direct payouts to your Nigerian bank account, making it ideal for those who need immediate access to their funds.
- User-Friendly Experience: Breet’s interface is intuitive and designed with all users in mind. It’s simple enough for beginners and robust enough for advanced users.
- Community Trust: Known for transparency and reliability, Breet is well-regarded in the Nigerian crypto community and is backed by excellent customer support.
How to Convert BTC to Naira on the Breet App
Ready to convert your BTC to Naira on Breet? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Register & Verify: Download the Breet app, sign up, and complete verification for secure access.
- Check Rate & Confirm: View the btc to naira rate. If satisfied, proceed with your sale.
- Deposit Bitcoin: Transfer your Bitcoin to your unique Breet wallet address by copying it or scanning the QR code.
- Transaction Processing: Breet will detect and automatically process your transaction once it’s confirmed on the blockchain.
- Receive Naira: Your Naira balance updates instantly, ready for quick withdrawal—no delays or extra steps.
Conclusion
Selecting the best platform for converting BTC to Naira requires careful consideration of essential features, such as security, conversion rates, transaction speed, ease of use, and payment options. Breet is a trusted option for those who value simplicity, speed, and competitive rates.
For those new to converting BTC or seasoned traders looking for reliability, Breet offers a comprehensive solution that’s secure, convenient, and transparent. Try Breet today, or use our checklist above to find the platform that best suits your needs.
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