Payaza Africa Limited, a leading payment‑infrastructure provider in Africa, announced a strategic partnership with Lebara Nigeria to embed secure payment services across the telecom operator’s offerings. The collaboration will allow Lebara customers to buy airtime and data, manage subscriptions and access other digital services through Payaza’s payment gateway, all within the operator’s mobile applications and USSD channels.
Lebara, a Tier 5 mobile virtual network operator, said the partnership reflects the growing convergence between telecommunications and financial technology in Africa. “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,” the operator added. “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.” The deal also extends to LebaraPlay, described as Africa’s first telecom‑owned micro‑drama platform, with integrated payment solutions slated to roll out across the operator’s mobile apps and USSD channels within the current quarter.
Beyond domestic services, the partnership is set to enhance connectivity for Nigerians abroad. Payaza’s multi‑jurisdictional collection and payout system will enable users overseas to fund airtime, data and other telecom services for their families in Nigeria more seamlessly, the statement read. “Payaza’s infrastructure and capabilities across the African markets have earned a strong vote of confidence from Lebara as it begins operations in Nigeria,” said Fawaz Abaniwonda, Executive Advisor, Innovation and Research at Payaza. “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.”
Teniola Stuffman, Chief Executive Officer of Lebara Nigeria, described the partnership as a major step toward expanding inclusive digital access. “Nigeria stands at a defining moment where millions require more inclusive and globally connected digital access,” he said. “By leveraging Payaza’s secure infrastructure, we are transforming connectivity into a gateway for digital commerce and financial empowerment.” The partnership aligns with Lebara’s “Telco Trinity” philosophy of delivering reliable, affordable, and customer‑centric services.
Payaza, founded in 2022 and headquartered in Lagos, 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. The company 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.
Industry observers note that the Lebara‑Payaza collaboration reflects a broader trend of Fintech‑telecom partnerships across Africa, driven by rising demand for integrated digital services. As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey, the partnership is expected to accelerate financial inclusion, strengthen digital commerce and build a more resilient and connected ecosystem for consumers both locally and in the diaspora.
