Despite a change in leadership only weeks prior, Nigeria’s Central Bank (CBN) remains resolute in its dedication to the central bank digital currency (CBDC), colloquially known as eNaira, which has seen no signs of being abandoned.
As a recent enhancement, the CBN has introduced Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to the eNaira mobile app, a move that modernizes the platform and aligns it with global standards.
Nigeria enhances the eNaira experience
The incorporation of NFC technology into the eNaira platform signifies a significant upgrade, revolutionizing the ease with which users can make payments.
This innovative technology allows for interaction between mobile devices and payment terminals when in close range, enabling swift and contactless transactions.
The unique feature that allows the eNaira to process contactless payments within seconds securely, sets it apart in the digital currency realm.
Joseph Angaye, the Deputy Director of Risk Management Department and team leader of the eNaira project, expressed pride in Nigeria’s digital currency infrastructure during an awareness workshop at the University of Abuja.
According to Angaye, Nigeria’s system ranks among the top five globally, testament to the significant investments in service enhancements.
eNaira: Pioneering digital transactions
The eNaira app, according to Angaye, has not only received positive reviews from users and stakeholders but has also proven its adaptability to emerging trends in digital payments.
Emphasizing the importance of keeping pace with the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Angaye highlighted the flexible programming of the eNaira app.
This adaptability means it can be custom-tailored to specific use-cases, for example, providing a fail-safe for intervention programs by preventing funds from being misappropriated.
Aside from speed, the eNaira digital currency was designed to minimize transaction risks, improve financial inclusion, and plug leakages in the payment collection process.
Angaye assures that the digital currency was not conceived to rival traditional banks but to streamline and simplify transactions.
Another CBN official, Shadrach Abdul, described the eNaira as an electronic form of cash. He stressed the importance of innovating ways to exchange services.
Highlighting the NFC feature, Abdul explained that a user’s phone becomes a transaction tool with a simple sticker. Even a standard phone can be transformed into a smart device capable of making eNaira transactions.
Universities and the future of eNaira
The NFC innovation, unveiled at the University of Abuja, promises a world of opportunities and a major shift in the institution’s accounting systems.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academics, of the University, Prof Aisha Sani Maikudi, sees the potential benefits of the eNaira platform and encourages the CBN to collaborate with the institution to ensure a broader success.
As the eNaira project continues to evolve, Nigeria’s Central Bank remains committed to ensuring that its digital currency meets international standards and serves the financial needs of its users.
By incorporating cutting-edge technologies like NFC, the CBN ensures that Nigeria stays at the forefront of digital currency innovation.
