AustriaCard Enters Nigerian Market, Aims to Drive Secure Digital Payments

Nume Ekeghe
Austria Card, a global provider of secure payment and identity solutions, has announced its entry into the Nigerian market with a focus on strengthening the country’s digital payment infrastructure. The company, which has a strong track record in financial services, e-government, and biometric security, is positioning itself as a strategic partner for local banks, fintech, and government agencies.

Speaking on Austria Card’s vision for Nigerian Lagos yesterday, the CEO Office Director, Burak Uge, said: “Nigeria is a huge market with significant potential, but also a challenging one due to its well-established financial ecosystem. However, with global trade restrictions and changes in supply chains, now is the right time for Austria Card to enter the market.”

The company plans to introduce its advanced EMV-compliant payment cards, biometric authentication solutions, and government ID technologies. With over 40 million cards sold annually and a 35 per cent market share in key regions, Austria Card brings extensive experience in providing secure payment solutions tailored to local needs.

Beyond banking, Austria Card is looking to expand its footprint in e-government services, including passports, national ID cards, and driver’s licenses. The company previously worked on Nigeria’s driver’s license program a decade ago and is now exploring partnerships with regulatory bodies such as NIMC and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Security remains a core focus for the company. According to Uge, Austria Card develops its proprietary software rather than relying on third-party systems, which ensures greater security and compliance with international standards. He noted, “Our operating system, introduced in 2005, has been continually upgraded for two decades. To date, we have had zero security issues.”

He also added that the firm is also working closely with Interswitch (Verve) and Afrigo, Nigeria’s domestic card scheme launched by the CBN in 2023, to localise its solutions and obtain necessary certifications. “For Afrigo to succeed, it needs strong partners, and we are committed to supporting it in becoming a major player not just in Nigeria but across Africa,” Uge added.

As part of its market entry strategy, Austria Card is fostering local partnerships with established Nigerian card manufacturers such as Secure ID, EP Plus, and Card Forte. Rather than competing with these companies, Austria Card aims to provide its technology and expertise to enhance the local payment ecosystem.

With a growing demand for premium financial products, Austria Card is also introducing metal cards targeted at high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients. While these are positioned as luxury items, the company is exploring innovative designs that cater to young professionals seeking stylish and secure payment options.

With Nigeria’s digital payments sector evolving rapidly, Austria Card’s entry signals growing confidence in the market’s potential. The company’s focus on security, local partnerships, and e-government solutions positions it as a key player in the future of digital finance in Nigeria.