Payaza, Lebara Nigeria Partner To Power Seamless Digital Payments, Telecom Services

Payaza Africa Limited, a leading payment infrastructure provider in Africa has announced a strategic partnership with Lebara Nigeria to boost digital payments, telecom services and financial access for millions of Nigerians.

Lebara is a Tier 5 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in Nigeria.

In a statement on Saturday, Payaza said through the collaboration, it will power payment experiences across Lebara’s services which will enable customers to seamlessly purchase airtime and data, manage subscriptions and access other digital services through secure payment channels.

According to the Payaza, “the partnership underscores the growing convergence between telecommunications and financial technology in Africa, as both companies seek to drive a more connected and financially inclusive digital economy.

“Lebara Nigeria adopts a digital-first, asset-light model designed to serve specialised consumer segments while addressing challenges such as high data costs and limited service accessibility.

“With the integration of Payaza’s payment infrastructure, customers are expected to enjoy simplified digital transactions, including airtime purchases, data top-ups and subscription management across Lebara’s expanding range of services.

“These services also extend to LebaraPlay, described as Africa’s first telecom-owned micro-drama platform.

“The integrated payment solutions are expected to roll out across Lebara Nigeria’s mobile applications and USSD channels within the current quarter.
Beyond domestic services, the partnership is also set to enhance connectivity for Nigerians in the diaspora.

“Payaza’s multi-jurisdictional collection and payout system will enable users abroad to fund airtime, data, and other telecom services for their families in Nigeria more seamlessly,” the statement read.

Speaking on the partnership, Fawaz Abaniwonda, Executive Advisor, Innovation and Research at Payaza, said the collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to delivering customer-focused payment solutions.

“At Payaza, customer obsession shapes every decision we make. Our partnership with Lebara Nigeria gives us an opportunity to translate that commitment into services that improve the everyday experience of millions of Nigerians. Lebara’s decision to select Payaza as it begins operations in Nigeria is a strong vote of confidence in our infrastructure and capabilities across the African markets,” Abaniwonda said.

Also commenting, Teniola Stuffman, Chief Executive Officer of Lebara Nigeria, described the partnership as a major step toward expanding inclusive digital access.

He said: “Nigeria stands at a defining moment where millions require more inclusive and globally connected digital access. Our partnership with Payaza aligns with our ‘Telco Trinity’ philosophy of delivering reliable, affordable, and customer-centric services.

“By leveraging Payaza’s secure infrastructure, we are transforming connectivity into a gateway for digital commerce and financial empowerment.”

Recall Payaza recently secured “A” credit rating upgrades from GCR, Agusto and DataPro, reinforcing its position as a trusted payment infrastructure provider with strong governance and risk management systems.

Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Lagos, Payaza serves over 10,000 businesses through a growing suite of payment solutions, including payment gateways, payouts, virtual accounts, collections, and its AI-powered platform, Shopaza.

Industry observers note that the partnership reflects a broader trend of collaboration between fintech and telecommunications firms across Africa, as demand rises for integrated digital services.

As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey, the Lebara–Payaza collaboration is expected to contribute to accelerating financial inclusion, strengthening digital commerce, and building a more resilient and connected ecosystem for consumers both locally and in the diaspora.