Access Bank Launches American Express Cards For Inter-country Payments

Access Bank has launched two new consumer credit cards; the Access Bank American Express Gold Card and the metal Platinum Card to boost payment across countries.

The cards are the first American Express Cards to be issued in Nigeria. By launching these cards, Access Bank improves its overall offering to its retail and private bank customers, who can now enjoy the Membership Rewards loyalty programme and a wide range of travel and lifestyle benefits.

In 2019, Access Bank signed an agreement with American Express to start acquiring merchants, enabling businesses across the country to accept payments from international American Express Cards. The bank is now ready to issue the first American Express credit cards in West Africa.

The Gold and Platinum Cards showcase the international American Express card design, featuring the distinctive ‘Centurion’ icon. Similar products are also issued outside of Nigeria by American Express or third parties licensed by American Express and provide Card members with extensive rewards and benefits. Through Access Bank, this credit card experience is now available in Nigeria.

Managing director/CEO of Access Bank, Roosevelt Ogbonna said: “The launch of American Express Cards in Nigeria is another milestone in the continued development of a vibrant and fast-growing payments industry. Customers want more than transactions, they want real value.

“With American Express, we can provide valuable card benefits, strong loyalty rewards, and a real reason to use electronic payments instead of cash. By diversifying our services to facilitate payments, we can connect more consumers to the SMEs and retail businesses across the country who we know are the engine of economic growth.”

President, Global Network Services at American Express, Mohammed Badi said: “by granting Access Bank a license to launch the first-ever American Express Cards in Nigeria, American Express’ presence in Africa is becoming even more vibrant.

He stated that, “the Access Bank American Express Gold Card and the metal Platinum Card enhance the credit card experience in Nigeria with special benefits, access, and service, for Cardmembers both in Nigeria and when travelling overseas.”

Alongside dual-currency functionality (NGN/USD) and international acceptance, the American Express Cards include; airport lounge access, car rental perks, Membership Rewards, loyalty points, as well as insurance and protections.

American Express is a globally integrated payments company providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success.