Nigerian central bank adds NFC upgrade to eNaira for contactless payments
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) remains committed to its central bank digital currency (CBDC) project despite a change in leadership. The CBN recently upgraded the CBDC mobile app by incorporating Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing for convenient and contactless eNaira payments through mobile devices and payment terminals in close proximity. The addition of NFC technology is expected to boost adoption rates for the CBDC. The eNaira will also have programmability features, limiting payments to designated government programs to reduce fraud risk. This programmability will enable targeted fund allocation for specific purposes, ensuring funds are used for their intended use only. The CBDC aims to address financial inclusion and provide valuable insights for economic players to learn from Nigeria's experience. Despite the launch of eNaira in 2021, adoption rates have been lower than expected, and the central bank is exploring various options to drive usage, including use cases in the transport sector and USSD functionality. The former CBN Governor blamed commercial banks for hindering eNaira's growth in favor of their own profitability.
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