How to Use Apple Pay in Nigeria: A Simple Guide

Apple Pay is one of the most popular mobile payment solutions worldwide, offering users a secure, easy way to make purchases online, in apps, and at physical stores without needing cash or cards. However, using Apple Pay in Nigeria can seem tricky at first. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using Apple Pay in Nigeria, including which payment cards can be linked, how to set it up, and how to use it both online and offline.

What Cards Can You Link to Apple Pay in Nigeria?

Apple Pay allows users to link several types of cards to the app, making it a versatile and convenient payment method. In Nigeria, you can link the following types of cards:

1. Debit and Credit Cards
   Apple Pay accepts major credit and debit cards from banks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Some Nigerian banks that issue these cards may support Apple Pay, so it’s a good idea to check with your bank to confirm compatibility.
2. Gift Cards
   Apple Pay also supports certain gift cards that can be used for purchases, as long as the gift card issuer allows it. While Nigerian-issued gift cards may not work directly, international gift cards like Apple Gift Cardscan often be linked to Apple Pay for purchasing apps, music, and other Apple services.
3. Prepaid Cards
   Some prepaid cards, especially those from international banks, can be linked to Apple Pay. Prepaid cards from Visa or Mastercard networks are widely accepted.

How to Set Up Apple Pay in Nigeria

Before you can set up and use Apple Pay in Nigeria, there are a few things you need to have. The requirements are:

1. A compatible Apple device, such as iPhone 6 or later, iPad Pro, iPad Air 2 or later, iPad Mini 3 or later, or Apple Watch.
2. The latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or WatchOS.
3. A supported credit or debit card. Check with your bank/financial institution to see if they support Apple Pay.

Getting Apple Pay set up on your iPhone or other Apple devices is straightforward. Follow these steps to add your debit, credit, or gift card to Apple Pay:

1. Open the Wallet App
   On your iPhone, locate and open the “Wallet” app. This is where you will manage your payment methods and cards.
2. Tap the “+” Icon
   In the Wallet app, tap the “+” icon in the top right corner to add a new card.
3. Select Payment Method
   Choose between debit/credit cards or gift cards, depending on the card type you are linking. If you’re using a gift card, ensure that it’s supported by Apple Pay.
4. Scan Your Card
   You can either manually enter the card details or use your iPhone’s camera to scan the card’s front side. Apple will automatically detect the card number and expiration date.
5. Verify with Your Bank
   Your bank will typically send a verification code to your phone or email to confirm the card. Enter the code when prompted to complete the setup.
6. You’re Ready to Pay
   Once verified, your card is added to Apple Pay, and you’re ready to make purchases online or at physical stores that accept Apple Pay.

How to Use Apple Pay for Online Purchases

Using Apple Pay online is incredibly convenient, especially if you’re shopping through apps or websites that support Apple Pay as a payment method. Here’s how to do it:

1. Shop Online
   When you’ve found what you want to buy, proceed to checkout.
2. Select Apple Pay as Payment Method
   At the checkout screen, select “Apple Pay” as your payment method.
3. Complete Payment
   Once selected, your iPhone will prompt you to authenticate the purchase. You can do this with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.
4. Payment Done
   After authenticating, your payment is instantly processed, and you’ll receive a confirmation of your purchase.

How to Use Apple Pay Offline (In-Store)

Using Apple Pay in physical stores is just as easy. Many retailers now accept Apple Pay, and here’s how you can use it in-store:

1. Look for the Apple Pay or Contactless Payment Icon
   Before making a purchase, check if the store accepts Apple Pay. You’ll usually see the Apple Pay logo or a contactless payment symbol at the checkout terminal.
2. Hold Your iPhone Near the Payment Terminal
   When you’re ready to pay, double-click the side button (for iPhones with Face ID) or the home button (for iPhones with Touch ID). Hold your phone near the payment terminal.
3. Authenticate
   Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode to authenticate the transaction.
4. Payment Success
   Once authenticated, you’ll see a checkmark on your screen and feel a slight vibration, indicating that the payment was successful.

Conclusion

Apple Pay is a fantastic tool for both online and offline purchases, offering a safe, convenient, and fast payment method for Nigerians. By linking your debit, credit, prepaid, or supported gift cards, you can quickly set up Apple Pay and start using it for daily transactions. While Apple Pay isn’t yet fully supported by all Nigerian banks, international cards and gift cards can help you access its benefits. And remember, if you have extra gift cards that you don’t need, you can always sell them on CardNigeria for cash. It’s a quick and reliable way to turn unused cards into money you can spend elsewhere.