‘Trust, inclusion essential for digital finance firms’

The Group Chief Operating Officer of Routelink Group, Stanley Oduah, has called on Financial Technology firms to centre their operations on trust, affordability, and financial inclusion to remain relevant to the Nigerian consumer.

Speaking on Monday, Oduah highlighted that the current economic climate is fundamentally changing how citizens interact with money, making “trust” the most critical factor for any digital platform.

“In such an environment, confidence in financial services is built on clear transaction visibility, reliable and timely settlements, strong fraud protection systems, and responsive customer support,” Oduah stated.

Despite the digital boom, Oduah noted that a significant portion of the population remains underserved. He pointed out that true inclusion must reach rural and low-income communities through practical, scalable technology rather than just high-end apps.

“Addressing this challenge requires practical and scalable solutions such as agent banking networks, USSD-based services, offline-enabled platforms, and expanded financial literacy programmes,” he explained.

He further emphasised that simply giving people an account is not enough. “True financial inclusion goes beyond access; it must deliver usability, simplicity, and tangible value that improves everyday financial experiences.”

The Routelink Group executive observed that Nigerian households are becoming more cost-conscious and digitally savvy. This transformation is forcing a shift toward real-time financial solutions and more efficient money management tools.

On the issue of cost, Oduah was blunt about the necessity of keeping services cheap. “In a period of economic strain, high transaction costs discourage usage, while efficient pricing structures encourage participation. Fintech solutions must remain accessible, cost-effective, and scalable for everyday users,” he added.

Looking toward the future, Oduah identified several trends set to define the industry, including a surge in contactless payments, instant settlements, and micro-lending, but warned that these innovations require a steady regulatory hand to survive.

“A balanced framework that encourages innovation while protecting consumers, alongside improved interoperability, consistent policy direction, and strengthened infrastructure, will be essential to deepening financial inclusion and system-wide efficiency,” Oduah noted.

Through its subsidiary, Routepay, Routelink Group continues to invest in infrastructure that simplifies local currency payments across growing markets. Oduah concluded by stressing that the industry’s survival depends on a united front.

“Sustainable progress in the fintech sector will depend on stronger collaboration between regulators, industry operators, and stakeholders to ensure that innovation delivers measurable value to Nigerians,” he concluded.