Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), Thursday, launched agency banking platform, e-debit card which actualise financial inclusion part of its services to Nigerians. The service also introduced 27 new logistics vehicles for courier services.
The products were unveiled by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami,
The Minister while unveiling the products said the NIPOST banking platform will allow NIPOST to conduct financial transactions with most importantly, Universal Postal Union (UPU) member countries.
He added that the banking platform is another innovative solution that will improve the financial system, adding that this is also in alignment with the proposal to come up with NIPOST Microfinance Bank, and they will also help the government in improving transparency and in the fight against corruption.
Pantami said “So, this is just like a pilot programme of another subsidiary of NIPOST that will come up soon, that is the NIPOST Micro Finance Bank in which we are to leverage on the existing infrastructure of NIPOST and make sure that our citizens all over the country as long as they have access to the post office, they will be able to conduct their financial transactions.
“It is the first of its kind in Nigeria because it works offline and online, and it is the first time that NIPOST has come up with a solution similar to this and it is indeed a multipurpose card for financial transaction, conditional cash transfer, payment of bills and many more.
“This is commendable and in alignment with our digital economy for achieving a digital Nigeria. Our target in this country by 2030 is to be completely digitalised,” he concluded
The Postmaster-General of the Federation, Ismail Adewusi, on his own part said the innovation is geared toward strengthening the capacity of the nation’s postal service to live up to its responsibilities amidst the emerging threats of the digital era.
He therefore urged Nigerians to patronise the services and the values that the new NIPOST electronic card has brought to their doorsteps.
“I equally recommend that all take advantage of the unique offerings by our e-Commerce and logistics venture for local and globe needs,” he said.
What You Should Know
The e-debit card will be given to Nigerians for free at all NIPOST annex nationwide and its expected to facilitate financial inclusion.
The card will function without the internet and can be replaced easily if stolen or lost.
The banking agency will function same way mobile money operators function like the Point of Sales (POS). The NIPOST said its exiting structures in all local governments in Nigeria will serve as the outlets for the mobile money services, which will assist residents of rural areas to improve their financial activities.