For many Nigerians, the convenience of Apple Pay everywhere brings up the common question "Is Apple Pay available in Nigeria?". While Apple pay allows users to make secure and instant payments, accessing it in Nigeria can be tricky. The reason is that most of the local banks in Nigeria don't officially support this.
What's helpful to know is that there are still ways to access Apple pay in Nigeria. Once you've identified the correct method, then you might be asking, "How to use Apple pay in Nigeria?". This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to do it securely and effectively!
Can I Use Apple Pay in Nigeria?
If you're wondering "Is Apple Pay available in Nigeria?", the answer currently depends on your bank and card provider company!
- For international transactions, if you have any international bank account supported by Apple, you can add that account into your Apple Wallet. This can be used easily for any online purchase or for transaction purposes.
- Local transactions can be done via indirect funding. Nigerian users add money to foreign currency cards (like USA or EUR) from Nigeria. Then, they can connect it with Apple pay.
- You can find local Nigerian banks who are partnered with Apple pay. If yours is supported, you can add your card to Apple pay and you are all set to use Apple Pay in Nigeria now!
Requirements to Use Apple Pay in Nigeria
Now that you are aware of different ways to use Apple pay in Nigeria! Let's take a closer look at requirements you'll need before getting started!
- You must have an Apple device that supports Apple pay (MacBook, iPhone, Apple Watcg, iPad or iPhone.
- You should have an Active Apple ID signed on your device
- Check Apple's official list of partnered banks to see if your Nigeriabank supports Apple pay or not
- Adjust the correct region settings on your device
- You will need a Wallet app installed on your device.
How to Set Up an Account for Apple Pay in Nigeria?
On iPhone
Are you ready to set it up? Let's get started
- Open settings on your iPhone
- Scroll down and click on Wallet & Apple Pay
- Tap "Add Card". Then add debit/credit card
- Scan your credit card with camera or enter the details manually
- Enter the card's security code.
- Click on "Continue" and Agree to the terms and conditions.
- After confirmation, you need to complete a two-factor authentication process.
On Apple Watch
- Open the Apple watch app on your iPhone
2. Tap on the Wallet & Pay
3. Add cards that you want to use by following the same steps as on your iPhone
4. Once account is verified, your cards will be synced to your Apple watch.
Steps to Use Apple Pay in Nigeria
With iCloud syncing, the same card account will be shared across all devices. Just follow these steps!
Using Apple Pay on iPhone or Apple Watch
Follow these steps;
- Double click the side button of your device to activate Apple Pay. You can access it easily without unlocking your device
- If you want to use a different credit card for the payment method other than default card. Swipe through all the options and select your desired cards in your Wallet.
- Hold your iPhone near NFC while standing at the payment terminal
- There will be a vibration that confirms the payment process.
What is NFC?
Apple Pay works via a technology called NFC (Near Field Communication). It is a short-range wireless technology that allows two devices to connect during a transaction. The distance between your Apple device and the payment terminal must be within 4 cm (1.5 inches).
Benefits of Using Apple Pay in Nigeria
Apple Pay offers more than just fast payments. It's a smarter, safer way to shop and manage your money. Here are some benefits of using Apple Pay in Nigeria!
Stronger Security
Your real card number is never stored or shared. Each transaction uses a unique digital code and requires Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, keeping your details safe even if a merchant’s system is compromised.
Privacy You Can Trust
Apple doesn’t track your purchases, so your spending details remain private — unlike many payment methods that share data with merchants or third parties.
Fast, Contactless Payments
Pay in seconds with just a tap — no PINs, no signatures, no cash. Perfect for quick checkouts and reducing physical contact.
All Your Cards in One Place
Store multiple debit and credit cards in your wallet and switch between them easily, whether for personal or business expenses.
Protection Against Loss or Theft
Apple Pay works only on your authenticated devices. If lost, you can lock or erase your device remotely via Find My iPhone.
Conclusion:
Does Apple Pay work in Nigeria? Yes — with a compatible bank or card, Nigerians can enjoy fast, secure, and contactless payments. Even with limited local support, using international banks or foreign currency accounts makes transactions possible. Setting up Apple Pay on your iPhone or Apple Watch is simple and gives you a convenient way to manage your money.