You are living abroad and want to open a bank account back in your home country Nigeria, but you are being told, “You have to come in person” says the banker. You know how difficult that can be.
For many Nigerians in diaspora, that’s been their reality for years, not having access to their own country’s financial system because of one blockade which is getting a Bank Verification Number (BVN). But that is changing.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in partnership with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) has launched the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) platform, a digital gateway that allows Nigerians outside the country to register for a BVN remotely.
CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, described the platform as a “milestone in financial inclusion.” He said “We are building a secure, efficient, and inclusive financial ecosystem for Nigerians globally. This platform is not just about financial access, it’s about national inclusion, innovation, and shared prosperity.
Now, diaspora citizens can:
- ✅ Open and operate Nigerian bank accounts
- ✅ Invest in the Nigerian economy
- ✅ Send and receive money seamlessly
- ✅ Access savings, pensions, and insurance services.
However, it is not just about convenience alone but also about economics. In 2024, remittances increased from $3.3 billion to $4.73 billion. With this new digital channel in place, CBN is setting its sights even higher to $1 billion in monthly remittances.
“With the introduction of NRBVN and complementary policy measures, we are optimistic about achieving our ambitious target of $1bn in monthly remittance flows, a goal we believe is entirely achievable given the growing trust and convenience in formal remittance channels.” – CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso,
This is a capital for development, funding for businesses, tuition for students, and support for families. When diaspora remittances grow, Nigeria grows and everyone benefits.
For Nigerians in Nigeria:
- ✅ Banks can now onboard diaspora customers faster.
- ✅ Fintechs can build better solutions for global Nigerians.
- ✅ Families can access diaspora support more efficiently.
- ✅ Investments flow more freely across borders
Deputy Governor of Economic Policy, Mr. Muhammad Abdullahi, called the NRBVN a “Transformative Tool” that will deepen the relationship between Nigeria and its citizens across the globe.
In conclusion, the launch of the NRBVN platform is not just technological, it’s an upgrade that breaks down the barriers of distance, bureaucracy, and time. It signals a more inclusive, innovative, and connected Nigeria, one where banking truly knows no borders.
Imagine living abroad and being able to send, receive, request, and perform transactions with the Bank9ja Web app (hyperlink the web app) without roadblocks.
For every Nigerian abroad who has ever struggled to access services at home, and for every family in Nigeria depending on their loved ones overseas, the message is clear:
Welcome to a new era. Your country just got closer.