In a move set to reshape Nigeria’s digital payment landscape, Flutterwave has unveiled a new partnership enabling its online merchants to accept American Express payments. The announcement marks a significant step forward in connecting Nigerian e-commerce with global payment systems.
The integration allows Flutterwave merchants to process transactions from American Express Card Members across all card categories – consumer, business, and corporate. While initially focused on Nigeria, the service is slated to expand across other African nations, including Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana, and Uganda.
The partnership addresses several key objectives in the African payment ecosystem. For Nigerian merchants using Flutterwave’s platform, it opens doors to an expanded customer base, tapping into American Express’s extensive network of cardholders both within Africa and internationally. The collaboration also strengthens American Express’s presence across the continent, providing their Card Members with increased opportunities to use their cards for purchases from African businesses.
Olugbenga ‘GB’ Agboola, Flutterwave’s Founder and CEO, shared his perspective on the development: “This initiative represents our ongoing commitment to connecting Africa with global commerce through efficient payment solutions.” He emphasized how the partnership would streamline transactions for cardholders while enhancing the capabilities of businesses using their platform.
The sentiment was echoed by Briana Wilsey, Vice President and General Manager of Global Network Services EMEA at American Express, who described the collaboration as advantageous for all parties involved. She highlighted how the partnership not only benefits Nigerian merchants by providing access to global customers but also enhances American Express’s service offerings in Nigeria.
For Flutterwave, this development builds upon their impressive track record of processing over 630 million transactions, with a total value exceeding USD $31 billion. The company’s platform, which enables various transaction types through a single API, has already attracted high-profile clients like Uber and Air Peace, demonstrating its robust capabilities in handling diverse payment needs across the continent.
The timing of this announcement is particularly significant, coming shortly after Flutterwave secured a Payment Service Provider license from the Bank of Ghana in August 2024. This enhanced category license enables the company to operate independently without relying on third-party services, further strengthening their position in the African financial technology sector.
This latest development follows Flutterwave’s history of strategic partnerships, including their previous collaboration with PayPal. However, while the PayPal service remains limited to specific African countries – notably excluding Nigeria – this new American Express integration promises broader accessibility for Nigerian merchants.
The partnership represents more than just a new payment option; it symbolizes a bridge between African commerce and global markets. By simplifying the payment process for both merchants and customers, Flutterwave continues to break down barriers to international trade for African businesses.
As digital commerce continues to evolve across Africa, this collaboration between Flutterwave and American Express demonstrates the growing sophistication of the continent’s payment infrastructure. It provides a practical solution for businesses looking to expand their reach while offering customers more flexibility in their payment choices.
The initiative underscores Flutterwave’s commitment to facilitating global commerce through Africa, creating pathways for businesses to start locally but operate globally, and strengthening the continent’s position in the international digital marketplace.
