Encomium
MTN Nigeria is preparing to roll out a new fintech platform as part of plans to strengthen digital financial services and expand financial inclusion across the country, signalling renewed momentum for the business after regulatory disruptions weighed on its performance in the first half of 2026. The company said the next phase of growth will be driven by technology, product innovation and deeper penetration into underserved communities.
Although fintech revenue moderated during the first half of the year following the suspension of its airtime lending service, MTN said the decline reflected regulatory compliance rather than weakening demand. The company noted that the lending service resumed towards the end of the second quarter and expects the business to regain momentum as operations normalise.
Providing an outlook for the business during an interview with CNBC Africa, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Financial Officer, Modupe Kadri, said the company remains committed to developing innovative financial products that improve access to digital financial services. “The service is back, and we will continue to operate fully in line with regulatory requirements. You’re also going to see a new fintech platform deployed, built on a modern technology stack, alongside other exciting innovations that will enhance the customer experience,” he said.
Kadri added that MTN’s expanding wallet ecosystem demonstrates the growing acceptance of mobile financial services, particularly in underserved communities. He said the company will continue its financial inclusion initiatives by extending digital financial services to more Nigerians who remain outside the formal banking system. According to the World Bank’s Global Findex Database, digital financial services and mobile money continue to play an increasingly important role in expanding financial inclusion across emerging markets by improving access to payments, savings and other financial products.
Beyond fintech, MTN expects innovation to remain a key pillar of its growth strategy in the second half of the year, with additional digital products and customer-focused services expected to be introduced across its ecosystem. “We’ve always aimed to stay ahead through innovation, and the second half of the year will reflect that commitment as we continue building products and services that respond to customers’ evolving needs,” Kadri said.
