How To Use Google Pay in Nigeria

You’ve probably heard of Google Pay -it’s a tap-and-go payment app people use to buy stuff without carrying cash or cards. But if you’re in Nigeria, you might be wondering: Can I use Google Pay here? The short answer? Yes, but with a few workarounds.

Google Pay isn’t officially supported for local bank cards in Nigeria yet, but that doesn’t mean you’re completely locked out. With the right setup, you can still use it for online payments and subscriptions.

In this guide, I’ll break it all down for you -how to set up Google Pay, what cards you can use, what it works for in Nigeria, and some helpful tips to get the most out of it.

What Is Google Pay?

Google Pay (GPay for short) is a digital wallet developed by Google that lets you make transactions quickly and securely, using your mobile device. It is simple to use, and comes with strong security features to keep your money and information safe.

Instead of carrying your debit or credit card around, Google Pay lets you pay for things both online and in physical stores by making a few taps on your mobile device. It can be used with major card providers, including Mastercard, American Express, and Verve. 

Google Pay is currently available in over 80 countries. However, it is not fully available in Nigeria. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use it at all. Read on to learn how to make Google Pay work for you in Nigeria. 

How Does Google Pay Work?

Google Pay serves as an alternative to your traditional bank cards. It keeps virtual copies of your cards in the app, so you can leave your physical cards at home and still buy things or send money with your phone.

First, you add your debit or credit card details to the Google Pay app. Don’t worry, it doesn’t store your actual card number. Instead, it replaces your actual card number with a unique digital token for each transaction.This means even if someone tried to hack the system, they wouldn’t get access to your real card.

You can also store other cards in your Google Wallet, such as Google Play gift cards, loyalty cards, coupons, or deals you’ve earned by using Google Pay at certain stores. 

Once your card is added and verified, you’re ready to start using GPay to make payments. For instance, if you’re shopping online on a site that supports Google Pay, you’ll just tap the Google Pay option at checkout, confirm the payment with your fingerprint or face ID, and you’re done. No need to type in card numbers and PINs every single time.

For in-store payments, if you’re in a country where it works fully, you just unlock your phone and tap it on a payment terminal that supports contactless. That’s it.

How Google Play Works in Nigeria

In Nigeria, Google Pay’s functionality is somewhat limited due to the lack of direct support from local banks. Therefore, to use this service in Nigeria, you will need to link an active MasterCard or Verve debit card to your Google Wallet. Once this is done, you can start sending and receiving money through Gmail. 

Lately, some fintech companies like Flutterwave and Interswitch have incorporated Google Pay into their payment systems. This makes it easier for Nigerians to carry out international transactions seamlessly.

How To Set Up a Google Wallet Account in Nigeria

To set up a Google Wallet account in Nigeria, you’ll require a Gmail address and a credit or debit card. Once you have these ready, follow these steps:

Step 1: Download the Google Wallet App

Since the app might not be directly available in Nigeria, you may need to use a VPN to access it in Nigeria. Alternatively, download it from an APK app store like Aptoide.

Sign up with your preferred Gmail address to create your Google Wallet account

Step 2: Add a Payment Method

Tap Add to Wallet, and then select Payment Card. Other options there include Transit Pass, Loyalty Card and Gift Cards. 

Step 3: Add Card Details

Next, enter the details of your bank card manually, and click Accept on the terms and conditions page.
Step 4: Verify Your Card

You’ll be asked to verify your card information. Click Text me a code to get a verification code that will be sent to your gmail. 

Enter the code once you receive it.
Step 5: Start Using Google Pay: 

If you want to use Google Pay as your default payment app, choose Set as Default.  Once set up, you can use Google Pay for online and in-app purchases where it’s accepted.

How To Send Money Using Google Pay in Nigeria

Follow the steps below to send money from your Google Wallet to another Google Wallet:

1. Sign in to your Google Wallet account either through the app or web interface.
2. Log in to your Gmail account and navigate to the Compose tab.
3. Type in the recipient’s Gmail address. You can also include a message to accompany the transfer if you want. 
4. Select the appropriate currency symbol – use “$” for recipients in the United States and “£” for those in the United Kingdom.
5. Input the desired amount and click “Send” to finalize the transaction.

How To Receive Money into Your Google Pay Account in Nigeria

So, someone sent money to you using Google Pay, and you’re wondering how to get it out? It’s quite easy, just follow the steps below:

1. Sign in to your Google account
2. Open the email notifying you of the money transfer to your Google Wallet.
3. Follow the instructions in the email to accept the funds and verify your Google Wallet identity.
4. Once verified, withdraw the money into your Google Wallet balance or linked bank card.

Advantages of Using Google Pay in Nigeria

Even though Google Pay isn’t fully integrated with Nigerian banks, there are still some solid benefits to using it. Here’s why it might be worth setting up:

Fast and Easy Payments

With Google Pay, you don’t have to enter your card details every time you want to make a payment. Whether you’re shopping online, paying for apps, or making in-app purchases, it’s a quick tap or click and you’re done.

Secure Transactions

Google Pay uses top-level security, like tokenization, so your real card number isn’t shared during a transaction. Plus, you can lock payments with biometrics (fingerprint or face ID), adding an extra layer of protection.

Works with Virtual Cards

Several Nigerian fintech platforms now offer virtual dollar cards that can be linked to Google Pay. This opens the door for more Nigerians to use the service, even without a foreign bank account.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using Google Pay in Nigeria

1. Can Google Pay be used in Nigeria?

Yes, Google Pay can be used in Nigeria, but with limited functionality. While you can use it for online purchases, features like contactless payments in physical stores are not supported. However, some Nigerian fintech platforms, such as Flutterwave and Interswitch, have integrated Google Pay into their systems, making it easier to carry out certain transactions.

2. Can I receive money with Google Pay in Nigeria?

Yes, you can receive money with Google Pay in Nigeria. Once someone sends you money through Google Pay, you’ll receive a notification and can easily claim the funds through the app.

3. How can I withdraw money from Google Pay in Nigeria?

You can withdraw money from Google Pay in Nigeria by linking your bank account to the app. Once linked, you can transfer funds from your Google Pay balance to your bank account directly within the app.

4. What are the alternatives to Google Pay in Nigeria?

If Google Pay doesn’t meet your needs, several Nigerian payment apps and digital wallets offer similar services. Some examples are Opay, Palmpay, Kuda, and Chipper Cash.

You can also use Google Play gift cards as a practical substitute for Google Pay. These gift cards allow you to purchase products or services directly on the Google Play Store.

Final Thoughts on Using Google Pay in Nigeria

Using Google Pay in Nigeria may not be as straightforward as in other countries, but it’s still very possible. With this service, you can carry out fast and secure global payments, making it perfect for those who shop online or do business internationally.

That said, Google Pay isn’t a full replacement for local options yet. For everyday transfers, airtime purchases, and bills, Nigerian digital wallets like Opay, Palmpay, and Kuda still offer better flexibility and local support.

In the end, the best setup might be using both: Google Pay for your international needs, and a local mobile money app for everything else. It’s all about choosing the combo that gives you the most value, convenience, and control over your money.