Payaza integrates with Lebara to power secure airtime and data purchases and digital payments

Leading payment infrastructure provider Payaza has partnered with Lebara Nigeria to integrate its secure payment infrastructure into the telecom operator’s digital ecosystem. This was disclosed in a statement seen by Technext.

The integration will enable seamless payment experiences for millions of Nigerians by powering secure airtime and data purchases and subscription management. It will also power digital payment services across Lebara Nigeria’s platforms, creating a more connected experience for customers while supporting the country’s growing digital economy.

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By combining Payaza’s payment infrastructure with Lebara’s digital-first telecommunications platform, both companies are advancing their shared vision of making essential digital services more accessible, reliable, and convenient.

Speaking about the partnership, Executive Advisor, Innovation and Research at Payaza, Fawaz Abaniwonda, chalks it down to customer obsession.

“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,” he said.

Payaza and Lebara serving the underserved

As a Tier 5 Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), Lebara Nigeria is focused on serving underserved consumer segments through an asset-light, technology-driven approach. Through this collaboration, Payaza will provide the payment capabilities that enable customers to complete transactions effortlessly across Lebara’s mobile applications and USSD channels, while also supporting subscription management for LebaraPlay, Africa’s first telecom-owned micro-drama platform. The rollout of these integrated services is expected to begin this quarter.

Beyond enhancing local customer experiences, the partnership also strengthens digital connectivity for Nigerians living abroad. Payaza’s multi-jurisdictional collection and payout infrastructure will enable members of the diaspora to conveniently pay for airtime, data, and other telecom services for family and friends in Nigeria, helping bridge geographical barriers through secure financial technology.

Speaking about the partnership, Chief Executive Officer of Lebara Nigeria, Teniola Stuffman, described the collaboration as a significant milestone in the company’s mission to expand inclusive digital connectivity.

“Nigeria stands at a defining moment where millions require more inclusive and globally connected digital access. Our partnership with Payaza aligns perfectly with our ‘Telco Trinity’ philosophy of delivering reliable, affordable, and customer-centric services. By leveraging Payaza’s secure financial infrastructure, we are transforming connectivity into a true gateway for digital commerce and financial empowerment,” Stuffman said.

The remarks reflect the shared vision driving the partnership, with both organisations committed to delivering secure, customer-centric solutions that bridge telecommunications and financial services while supporting greater digital inclusion across Nigeria.

The announcement reinforces Payaza’s commitment to building payment infrastructure that enables businesses across industries to deliver secure, scalable, and frictionless digital experiences. As telecommunications and financial technology continue to converge, the company sees strategic collaborations like this as critical to expanding financial inclusion, simplifying digital commerce, and accelerating innovation across Africa.

The partnership also follows the company’s recent “A” credit rating upgrades from GCR, Agusto, and DataPro, reflecting the company’s operational resilience and robust risk management practices as it continues to serve businesses across the continent.

By combining trusted payment infrastructure with next-generation telecommunications services, both organisations are laying the foundation for a more inclusive digital ecosystem—one that makes it easier for individuals and businesses to connect, transact, and thrive.

“Lebara’s decision to select Payaza as it begins operations in Nigeria is a significant vote of confidence in our infrastructure, our people, and our ability to support global brands—not only in Nigeria, but across the 19 African markets in which we operate,” Fawaz Abaniwonda said.