Is Nigeria cashless?
Cash preferred#112 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #11 of 54 in Africa
Short answer: Plan to use cash every day. Cards are mainly for hotels and bigger businesses.
Nigerians pay mostly by bank transfer and POS terminals. Foreign cards work in some hotels and malls in Lagos and Abuja, but visitors usually need cash, which can be hard to get.
Will my card work?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Nigeria, and little else.
Do I need cash?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Nigeria.
Local currency: Nigerian naira (NGN)
How does tipping work?
10% in restaurants.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Good to know
- Naira cash shortages happen; withdraw when you can.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nigeria cashless?
Nigeria scores 38/100 on Cashlessy (cash preferred), ranking #112 of 197 countries. Nigerians pay mostly by bank transfer and POS terminals. Foreign cards work in some hotels and malls in Lagos and Abuja, but visitors usually need cash, which can be hard to get.
Do I need cash in Nigeria?
Yes. Cards work in some places, but you will need cash most days in Nigeria.
Are credit cards accepted in Nigeria?
Only in some places. Expect cards to work at larger hotels and a few big businesses in Nigeria, and little else.
Do you tip in Nigeria?
10% in restaurants.
Compare with Africa
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.