Paga, Nigeria’s pioneering mobile payments and financial services company, has officially launched operations in the United States—marking a bold step toward transforming how the African Diaspora moves and manages money.
For many Africans living in the U.S., basic financial services such as opening a bank account or sending money home are often costly and inaccessible. Paga’s new platform allows diaspora users to open and manage U.S. bank accounts using only valid identification and a U.S. residential address. The rollout begins with the Nigerian community in the U.S., which has grown significantly over the last four decades.
The Nigerian population in the United States is estimated at around 760,000, with nearly 476,000 being Nigerian-born immigrants. This represents dramatic growth from just 25,000 in 1980, with remittances from this community playing an increasingly important role in Nigeria’s economy. In 2024, remittance inflows to Nigeria reached approximately $21 billion, highlighting the financial significance of diaspora contributions.
Paga’s U.S.-based digital accounts come with physical and virtual Visa debit cards that integrate with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Plaid. This allows customers to link popular third-party apps such as Robinhood and Venmo, as well as conduct transfers to both U.S. and Nigerian bank accounts. Expansion to additional African countries is planned in the coming phases of the rollout.
Unlike traditional remittance services, Paga positions its offering as a full banking and payments platform. The system is designed to enable Africans abroad to participate in global commerce while maintaining strong financial ties to their home countries. This “one wallet” approach specifically targets people who operate across two worlds, providing a streamlined solution for their financial needs.
Says Tayo Oviosu (Founder & CEO at Paga)
#IDontWantToOverreactBUT
Hello, America! Paga has officially landed 🇺🇸
We’re unlocking a new era of financial freedom for the African Diaspora, beginning with the Nigerian community.Paga’s US dollar account gives users access to an FDIC-insured current account, connected to the financial tools they use every day. It is simple, inclusive, and built for real-life needs. We are putting control back in the hands of the diaspora and laying the foundation for borderless banking for Africans everywhere.
ABOUT
Founded in 2009, Paga has grown into one of Africa’s leading fintech firms, processing over $1 billion in monthly transactions across its businesses. Paga is already used by over 30 million people in Nigeria. Its consumer wallet, Paga, B2B platform Paga Engine, and SME management tool Doroki are all built on the same infrastructure. In 2024, the company processed 124 million transactions worth ₦8.7 trillion (approximately $5.6 billion), underscoring its scale and reach.