Interswitch, American Express partner to foster ease of digital transactions

In a bid to enhance digital transactions and boost foreign investments in Nigeria, Interswitch Limited, a renowned technology-driven company focused on the digitisation of payments in Nigeria and other countries in Africa has partnered with American Express (AmEx), to expand the usage and acceptance of American Express Cards across Nigeria.

Speaking recently at an event organised to announce the new development, Akeem Lawal, divisional chief executive officer for payment processing at Interswitch said that the partnership with Interswitch will enable American Express Card members to transact using a wide range of merchants.

“This partnership will process payments through the Interswitch platform, for a range of travel, retail, hospitality and dining expenses, as well as Automated Teller Machine (ATM) withdrawals. More to this, the partnership will also allow Interswitch to integrate its network of merchants in Nigeria into the global American Express network,” Lawal said.

He further said that as part of the agreement, Interswitch will assume responsibility for managing American Express merchants in Nigeria, while bringing new merchants onto its platform.

“Previously, American Express Card members could only use their cards at select locations across Nigeria. This new partnership broadens that acceptance to Interswitch merchants, ATMs and websites nationwide,” he said.

According to Lawal, “AmEx and Interswitch are aligned in our desire to provide fast and secure payment solutions and transactions across Nigeria. With this new partnership, we are improving AmEx card member access to a convenient and secure network, which also benefits our merchants who will gain new opportunities presented by an expanded user base. By remaining card scheme neutral, Interswitch will continue to explore innovative partnerships that will benefit consumers and retailers alike.”

He also reiterated the commitment of Interswitch to reliably cater for its valued merchants, to reinforce the company’s mantra of transaction solutions you can depend on. He recommended new merchants join the Interswitch platform, highlighting that the addition of American Express cards can help to expand their businesses.

Also speaking at the event, Vivi Galani, vice president and general manager, global network partnerships EMEA for American Express said that the new partnership reinforced American Express’s role as a leading global network.

“We are excited to be partnering with Interswitch, a well-respected pan-African financial technology company, to continue to grow our presence in Nigeria. As we partner with leading banks and financial institutions around the world, we are bringing the powerful backing of the American Express network to Card members and merchants by expanding acceptance of our Cards,” she said.