Fintech solutions must remain accessible, cost-effective for users – Oduah

Stanley Oduah, the group chief operating officer (GCOO), Routelink Group, says Fintech solutions must remain accessible, cost-effective, and scalable for everyday users, as Nigeria’s economic conditions continue to shape how citizens engage with financial services.

“In a period of economic strain, high transaction costs discourage usage, while efficient pricing structures encourage participation,” Oduah stated in a monitored interview, adding that affordability remains a decisive factor in driving adoption.

He stated that Fintech firms must prioritize trust, inclusion and affordability. According to him, heightened economic pressure has significantly increased users’ sensitivity to risk, making trust a decisive factor in the adoption of digital financial platforms.

Oduah further explained that a persistent financial inclusion gap still exists, particularly among underserved populations in rural and low-income communities. “In such an environment, confidence in financial services is built on clear transaction visibility, reliable and timely settlements, strong fraud protection systems, and responsive customer support.”

He noted that addressing the challenge requires practical and scalable solutions such as agent banking networks, USSD-based services, offline-enabled platforms, and expanded financial literacy programmes.

According to him, the Routelink Group has been at the forefront of technological innovation in Nigeria with its subsidiaries providing cutting-edge solutions in enterprise IT, Fintech, and telecommunications.

“The Routepay digital services make it easy to send, receive and make payment in local currencies across growing markets,” Oduah stated, emphasising that true financial inclusion goes beyond access, stressing that it must deliver usability, simplicity, and tangible value that improves everyday financial experiences.

The Routepay boss also observed that consumer behaviour in Nigeria is undergoing a clear transformation, with households becoming more cost-conscious, digitally engaged, and increasingly demanding greater transparency and efficiency in financial services.