Mastercard Hosts 2024 Fintech Forum, Emphasizes Industry Collaboration and Innovation to Boost Nigeria’s Fintech Ecosystem 

In a significant tribute to Nigeria’s thriving financial technology sector, payments giant Mastercard brought together key players at its recently held Fintech Forum on March 20, 2024

The forum brought together key representatives from the fintech community, commercial banks, microfinance banks, processors, investors, regulators, and the government, to discuss critical developments and trends in the Nigerian Fintech landscape.

The gathering showcased the leading payments technology firm’s steadfast dedication to nurturing and advancing the fintech arena’s growth and progress.

At the forum, Mastercard said industry collaboration and innovation will play a significant role in boosting Nigeria’s Fintech ecosystem development and creating future opportunities.

The Country Manager and Area Business Head for West Africa at Mastercard, Folasade Femi-Lawal, said,

“Mastercard’s Fintech forum has become an avenue to advance discussions on the development of the industry in Nigeria, and we are proud to be the vehicles of this change. The discussions this year underscored the pivotal role of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of Nigeria’s Fintech landscape. Mastercard remains unwavering in our commitment to power this positive change, offer support, and lead the evolution of the industry.”

The event also featured a fireside chat titled “Mastercard’s Role in Fintech Ecosystem Collaboration”. During this discussion, Dimitrios Dosis, president of Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Mastercard, said,

“Fintechs continue to stand as the trailblazers, pushing boundaries and reshaping industries. Their penchant for innovation is not just transformative, it is integral to the very fabric of our industry and the broader economy. Mastercard, as a driving force, is proud to champion the pivotal role of fintechs, recognizing their significance in fostering economic progress. 

“As a leading technology provider, we will continue to innovate, and support and collaborate with them to drive locally relevant solutions and initiatives for maximized impact. We’re committed to being the catalyst that propels the ecosystem forward, facilitating a future where technology empowers individuals, businesses, and economies to participate in the global economy.”

The fireside chat was followed by a panel session titled “Digitization and Its Role in Nigeria’s Economic Development”, during which speakers delved into digitization, its role in enhancing efficiency across all sectors, opportunities, and the importance of balancing innovation and inclusivity maximize its impact on Nigeria’s economic development.

Division president, of Mastercard Sub-Saharan Africa, Mark Elliott closed the event by emphasizing the importance of the fintech industry, also highlighting the significance of inclusive innovation and collaboration in driving sustained economic development.