By Aduragbemi Omiyale
A forum to address critical challenges such as infrastructure gaps, limited financial literacy, and rising fraud in the financial system was recently convened by one of Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce companies, Interswitch.
The tech firm brought together financial leaders, policymakers, innovators, and business stakeholders to explore the evolving dynamics of Nigeria’s digital payments ecosystem and the opportunities that lie at the intersection of innovation, collaboration, and compliance.
This was done at the debut of TechConnect 5.0 in Enugu under the theme United Frontiers: Growth Powered by Innovation, Collaboration and Compliance.
The thought-provoking discussions offered participants actionable insights to scale their operations and strengthen the wider ecosystem.
One of the key highlights was the panel session titled Scaling Digital Payments: Tackling Infrastructure, Financial Proficiency, and Fraud for Inclusive Growth.
Speakers emphasised the need for ecosystem-wide cooperation, shared infrastructure, and enhanced consumer education to sustain trust in Nigeria’s digital payment systems.
This was complemented by a fireside chat themed Collaboration as a Growth Multiplier: Unlocking Potentials Through Digitised Payments, where industry experts explored how strategic partnerships among banks, fintechs, regulators, and merchants can unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and expand access to financial services.
The Managing Director for Payment Processing and Switching at Interswitch PurePay, Mr Akeem Lawal, reaffirmed Interswitch’s commitment to advancing Africa’s digital economy.
“TechConnect 5.0 provides a vital platform for engaging with industry stakeholders, co-creating solutions, and addressing the real challenges that define our industry. The conversations here in Enugu have reinforced the importance of innovation, collaboration and compliance in building a more inclusive and resilient payments ecosystem,” he said.
Beyond the discussions, participants also experienced Interswitch’s suite of innovative solutions designed to drive efficiency, scale operations, and unlock value for businesses of all sizes.
Live product demonstrations and customer success stories showcased how the company’s technology is enabling efficiency, transparency, and growth for businesses across Nigeria.
The event also featured an awards presentation, where outstanding partners and contributors were recognised for their commitment to driving digital transformation and innovation across the financial ecosystem.
The Enugu edition marks a successful opening for the TechConnect 5.0 tour, which will continue in Abuja on October 14 at The Wells Carlton Hotel, and culminate in a grand finale in Lagos on November 11, 2025, at the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino.
