Understandably, many people have different opinions about these events, but everyone in the tech space will agree that the annual Moonshot Conference hosted by TechCabal, is one of a kind.

At this year’s Moonshot event, Cardtonic leaders took the stage in a grand style. The spotlight was on a transformative panel session by the Growth lead, Tomisin Oduyemi, discussing “Scaling, Compliance, and the Cost of Growth for Fintech in Africa.” In addition, Cardtonic CEO Emmanuel Sohe delivered an inspiring speech on “Building Resilient Fintech Products for Africa’s Dynamic Economy.”

Both sessions left a lasting impression on attendees. If you missed the discussions, here’s a quick look at key insights shared by the Cardtonic’s leaders.

Why Scaling and Compliance Matter in African Fintech Today

Scaling as an Africa Fintech isn’t just about handling more users or transactions. It’s about expanding sustainably, while compliance ensures that this growth happens within safe, transparent, and legal boundaries. Together, they form the backbone of any fintech that hopes to grow in Africa’s digital economy.

Tomisin Oduyemi, Cardtonic’s growth lead, opened the panel session with a story that brought this to life.

She explained how, back in 2021, Cardtonic’s transaction volumes suddenly spiked. What happened was Nigerian cards had just been restricted for international payments, and both individuals and businesses were desperately looking for new ways to make cross-border purchases. That period brought a flood of users to Cardtonic, but it also came with a surge in fraud attempts.

“Imagine people creating fake profiles and trying to move money around at 2 a.m.,” Tomisin shared. “Unfortunately for them, it didn’t work.”

What protected the company was a safety feature that only allowed users to fund and withdraw from their own accounts. It was a small rule that made a big difference. 

Cardtonic’s Perspective on Responsible and Sustainable Scaling

Tomisin’s story opened the floor for a deeper discussion on what responsible growth truly means for fintechs operating in Africa.

Drawing from Cardtonic’s experience, Tomisin shared practical insights on how fintechs can expand sustainably while earning and maintaining trust across borders. Below are some of her views.

Understanding the Uniqueness of Each Market

According to Tomisin, one of the biggest mistakes fintechs make when expanding is assuming that compliance looks the same everywhere. “Compliance has never been a one-size-fits-all kind of shoe,” she noted.

She explained that each market has its own trust psychology, and ignoring that can damage credibility before a product even launches. For instance, rolling out a tax-related app in Nigeria without approval from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) would instantly raise doubts about its legitimacy.

To avoid this, she advised that fintechs take time to identify key regulators, licenses, and documentation that might shape user perception and market access. “Before building that shiny new product,” she said, “try to understand what each market requires, both legally and emotionally.”

Building Practical Collaboration Across Borders

On the subject of uneven regulatory frameworks across Africa, Tomisin took a realistic stance. While regional harmonisation sounds ideal, she pointed out that every regulator is solving different local problems, so a single rulebook for the continent is not likely in the near future.

Instead, she emphasised the value of smaller, practical collaborations, regulators sharing learnings, aligning on core principles like KYC and data protection, and keeping communication channels open.

She also stressed that fintechs must lead by example. “If you build disciplined systems at home and engage regulators transparently, you’re more likely to be trusted when you expand elsewhere,” she explained. In her words, cross-border credibility begins with local responsibility.

How Compliance Shapes Cardtonic’s Growth Strategy

When asked how regulatory frameworks affect Cardtonic’s growth strategy, Tomisin explained that compliance is not a barrier but a guide. It defines how the company builds and communicates its products.

For instance, Cardtonic ensures that every product guide and video clearly explains KYC levels and what each tier allows users to do. “It makes us more deliberate about educating users,” she said.

Marketing is also handled with care. Every major campaign goes through ARCON approval before publication, ensuring transparency and accuracy.

“It keeps us diligent to timelines and helps us avoid overpromising,” she added.

While some fintechs slow expansion due to high compliance costs, Cardtonic has never had to deprioritise a market. The company believes in growing deeply before expanding wide, and that focus continues to pay off.

Cardtonic’s Journey and How It Has Shaped the Future of Digital Transactions in Africa 

And just when you thought you couldn’t get any more solid stuff from Cardtonic Leaders, Emmanuel Sohe, the CEO, decided to deliver a beautiful speech to inspire the next generation of fintech growth in Africa.

But, instead of giving a boring speech on “Building Resilient Fintech Products for Africa’s Dynamic Economy,” he chose to tell Cardtonic’s story of grit and adaptability.

He recalled how the 2021 CBN ban on crypto transactions forced the team to rethink everything. And within days, they had to rebuild the app, remove crypto features, and reshape Cardtonic into what it is today. That tough moment became the foundation for new solutions that now let users trade gift cards, pay local and international bills, and make global purchases with Cardtonic’s Virtual Dollar Card.

Emmanuel ended by reminding innovators that resilience means turning challenges into opportunities. “We didn’t give up on dreams,” he said, “we focused on value, discipline, and growth that lasts.”

Wrapping Up

This year’s Moonshot event was a spectacular one, and Cardtonic’s presence truly contributed to its success. From insightful panel discussions to powerful storytelling, the brand reaffirmed its position as one of Africa’s most forward-thinking fintechs.

As a Platinum Sponsor of the event, Cardtonic’s participation made an even greater impact, inspiring conversations around innovation, resilience, and the future of fintech in Africa.

Scheduled to take place from October 15 –16, 2025, at the Eko Convention Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, the future-shaping conference will convene over 4,000 participants and more than 120 speakers from over 15 countries, all focused on accelerating the trajectory of Africa’s tech-driven future.

This year’s theme, “Building Momentum: Africa’s Tech Ecosystem Positions Itself for Its Next Big Leap,” captures a critical moment for the continent’s tech landscape. Following years of resilience through economic downturns and funding contractions, the ecosystem is maturing rapidly and sensibly redirecting focus toward sustainable, scalable growth.

Moonshot 2025 will serve as a platform to consolidate these hard-won gains and align stakeholders around the next era of opportunity, across key tech verticals.

Headline sponsored by Sabi, a global trade and supply chain enabler, the agenda-setting conference has evolved into a continental platform for catalysing connections, unlocking capital, and amplifying bold ideas.

Now in its third year, Moonshot serves as a dynamic hub, and a living museum, of Africa’s innovation journey, actively bridging past achievements with future ambitions.

Speaking about the event, Tomiwa Aladekomo, CEO of Big Cabal Media, said:

“The last few years truly tested the resilience of Africa’s tech ecosystem, but they also undeniably sharpened it. The ups and downs in funding have given way to something far more intentional, with founders now building smarter and with clearer purpose. Despite the challenges, African founders have persevered and thrived. Crucially, regulations have also matured, providing much-needed direction. What we’re witnessing now is genuine momentum, firmly grounded in strong fundamentals, propelled by clarity, and intensely focused on scale. Moonshot 2025 offers a vital space to reflect on our journey and to channel this momentum into meaningful progress for founders, investors, and the entire ecosystem”

This year’s edition will welcome a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Andrew Alli, non-executive director, British International Investment (BII), Maxime Bayen, Operating Partner, Catalyst Fund, and Lexi Novitske, General Partner, Norrsken22, among others.

The event will also showcase its nine signature content tracks, now enhanced with refreshed programming designed to foster deeper, more impactful conversations. This include:

• FUEL: The Investor Conference: This track is significantly upgraded to improve deal-making and investment opportunities, with a stronger focus on attracting Limited Partners (LPs), Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), and first-time investors in Africa. It will feature structured deal rooms, curated pitch sessions, an investor’s guide to Africa, and dedicated spaces for peer exchange across the investor landscape.
• Startup Festival: Tailored for both early- and growth-stage founders, this festival will offer intensive workshops, operator-led sessions, and live startup showcases, including the TC Battlefield – it’s flagship pitch competition.
• Emerging Tech (AI): A dedicated space to explore the practical applications of artificial intelligence across various sectors on the continent, featuring product demos and insights from leading builders and researchers.
• Government & Policy Conference: This vital track will convene policymakers from across Africa to engage in discussions on crucial digital policy reforms and work towards tangible commitments to support innovation and scale across the continent.

Additional tracks, including Creative Economy, Climate Tech, Future of Commerce, Big Tech & Enterprise, and Entering Tech, will feature compelling conversations on critical topics such as financing infrastructure, workforce development, and fostering cross-sector collaboration.

Also speaking about the event, Anu Adedoyin, CEO and co-founder of Sabi said:

“This marks our third year as a proud partner of Moonshot, and the evolution of this conference mirrors the incredible growth and ambition of African tech. We believe in building robust foundations for digital commerce, and Moonshot is crucial for fostering the connections and clarity needed for founders to build smart, scalable solutions. We’re excited to see the tangible momentum this year’s event will generate for Africa’s next big leap.”

Proudly supported by platinum sponsors Flutterwave, Luno, Fincra, Raenest, Cardtonic, Roqqu, Opay, and Busha, the conference will build on the outcomes of previous editions, including a $120,000 ecosystem pledge at last year’s Tech Ecosystem Alliance roundtable.

Delegates are encouraged to register via moonshot.techcabal.com  with Early bird tickets available through July 31.

The event is open to founders, operators, investors, creatives, policymakers, students, and professionals shaping Africa’s innovation economy.

Nigerians are finding it increasingly difficult to make international payments as local banks continue to impose restrictions on foreign transactions.

Whether it’s subscribing to global services, shopping online, or running digital ads, traditional payment methods often fall short.

A virtual dollar card offers a seamless solution by providing a secure, flexible, and widely accepted alternative for making payments in USD without the need for a domiciliary account. These cards work on major platforms, allowing users to shop, subscribe, and conduct business transactions with ease.

This guide explores some of the best virtual dollar card providers in Nigeria, helping you find a reliable option for your financial needs.

5 Top Virtual Dollar Card Providers in Nigeria

Foreign transaction restrictions have made international payments challenging for many Nigerians. The table below highlights the best virtual dollar card providers, comparing their fees, and features to help you make the right choice.

1. Cardtonic

Cardtonic stands out as Nigeria’s top virtual dollar card provider, offering a secure, reliable, and cost-effective solution for international payments. Unlike traditional bank cards that frequently fail for foreign transactions, Cardtonic guarantees seamless payments on platforms like Netflix, Amazon, Spotify, AliExpress, Apple Music, Google Play, and Facebook Ads.

One of Cardtonic’s biggest advantages is its instant funding feature, allowing users to top up their virtual cards directly from their Cardtonic wallet without delays or unnecessary restrictions. This eliminates the frustration of failed transactions, ensuring that payments are processed smoothly and efficiently.

Security is also a top priority, with Know Your Customer (KYC) verification in place to protect users from fraud and unauthorised access. Additionally, Cardtonic offers competitive exchange rates with zero hidden fees, making it a transparent and cost-effective choice compared to other providers.

Beyond virtual dollar cards, Cardtonic is a one-stop financial platform, providing services like gift card trading, gadget purchases, and bill payments. Whether you’re a freelancer, business owner, or everyday shopper, Cardtonic’s affordable $1.50 card creation fee, zero maintenance charges, and broad acceptance on global platforms make it the best choice for Nigerians seeking a seamless USD payment experience.

2. Eyowo:

Eyowo provides a virtual dollar card designed for secure and flexible international payments.

One of its standout features is its numberless card technology, which keeps card details stored securely within the app, reducing the risk of fraud. Eyowo’s card is widely accepted on global platforms, making it a reliable option for subscriptions, online purchases, and business transactions.

The platform also integrates multi-functional financial services, including bill payments, money transfers, and digital banking features, giving users an all-in-one experience.

3. Boldapp:

Boldapp offers a user-friendly virtual dollar card that allows Nigerians to pay for goods and services online without bank restrictions. The platform provides instant card creation and funding, making it easy to access USD payments for shopping, streaming, and advertising.

With a focus on affordability, Boldapp ensures users get low fees and competitive exchange rates, making it a great option for individuals who need a budget-friendly virtual card.

In addition to virtual cards, Boldapp offers wallet services, bill payments, and financial tools, allowing users to manage their money effortlessly within the app.

4. Bitmama:

Bitmama is an innovative virtual dollar card provider that bridges the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional finance. The platform allows users to fund their virtual cards using crypto or local currency, making it a preferred option for those looking for flexible and decentralised payment options.

With Bitmama, users can pay for subscriptions, e-commerce purchases, and international services, ensuring they have a secure way to transact globally.

5. Mintyn

Mintyn offers a bank-backed virtual dollar card that allows users to make international payments effortlessly. The card is integrated within its digital banking platform, providing access to fund transfers, savings, and investment options alongside virtual card services.

One of Mintyn’s key benefits is its low transaction fees and stable exchange rates, ensuring users get affordable USD payments for subscriptions and e-commerce purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Dollar Cards in Nigeria

1. Can I link a virtual dollar card to PayPal?

Yes, some virtual dollar cards can be linked to PayPal for seamless online payments. However, not all providers support this feature, so it’s best to check with your provider before linking your card.

2. Do virtual dollar cards expire?

Yes, virtual dollar cards come with an expiration date, similar to physical cards. The validity period varies by provider, typically ranging from one to three years.

3. Which virtual dollar card has the best exchange rate?

Exchange rates vary among providers. Cardtonic is known for offering competitive exchange rates with no hidden charges, ensuring users get value when funding their cards.

4. Do virtual dollar cards support refunds?

Refund policies depend on the provider. Some virtual dollar cards support refunds, but the processing time varies. It’s best to check the provider’s refund policy before making a purchase.

5. Can I get multiple virtual dollar cards from the same provider?

Some platforms allow users to create multiple virtual dollar cards, but limits vary by provider. Cardtonic and Mintyn offer options for managing multiple cards for different transactions.

Conclusion

As digital payments continue to shape the financial landscape, having access to a reliable virtual dollar card is no longer just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Whether for online shopping, subscriptions, or business transactions, Nigerians need a payment method that works without the hassle of foreign transaction declines or hidden fees.

With several options available, choosing the right provider depends on security, affordability, and ease of use. A platform like Cardtonic, with its instant funding and no maintenance fees, ensures users enjoy a smooth and reliable international payment experience.

If you’ve ever tried paying for subscriptions like Apple Music or shopping on platforms like Amazon, you probably know the struggle. Without an alternative, you won’t be able to make payments.

Well, here’s the thing: a virtual dollar card can change that. It offers you a seamless way to make online payments, free from the usual headaches that come with traditional payment methods.

In this article, I’ll break down the benefits of using virtual dollar cards in Nigeria—from bypassing Naira restrictions to making secure international payments. Stick with me, and you’ll see why this might be exactly what you need.

5 Key Benefits of Using Virtual Dollar Cards in Nigeria for Online Transactions

Virtual dollar cards offer several advantages, including bypassing Naira payment restrictions, providing secure online payments, giving you better control over spending, eliminating the need to carry physical cards, and offering flexibility for shopping across multiple international platforms.

1. Bypass Naira Payment Restrictions for International Transactions

If you’ve ever tried to buy something online and couldn’t because your Naira card wasn’t accepted, you know how frustrating it is. Virtual dollar cards fix that problem.

With one of these cards, you can shop anywhere in the world—Amazon, Apple Music, Aliexpress, you name it—without worrying about your Naira card being blocked.

2. Secure Online Payments with No Risk of Fraud

Shopping online is awesome, but the thought of your bank details being stolen? Not so much. Virtual dollar cards help protect you because they aren’t linked to your bank account.

If anyone tries to hack your card, all they get is a card with a set amount of money. It’s like having a shield around your real bank account. You can shop confidently knowing your details are safe.

3. Better Control Over Spending with Set Limits

We’ve all been there—browsing online, and before you know it, you’ve spent way more than you planned. With a virtual dollar card, you can set a spending limit.

If you want to buy a new gadget but don’t want to go overboard, just set a limit. It’s like having a budget that’s always with you, helping you avoid the temptation to overspend.

4. No Need to Carry Physical Cards

Who wants to carry around a bunch of cards? With virtual dollar cards, you don’t have to. Everything is digital and stored on your phone. You can make payments instantly without having to fish through your wallet.

It’s like carrying your bank with you but without all the extra stuff. Super convenient and always ready when you are.

5. Flexibility for Shopping Across Multiple eCommerce Platforms

A virtual dollar card gives you the freedom to shop on all your favourite international websites without worrying about payment issues. Whether it’s ordering a new gadget from Amazon or paying for an international subscription, you can use the card everywhere that accepts online payments.

It’s like having one card that works across the board, making online shopping easier and more convenient without needing to keep track of different payment methods.

Where to Get Virtual Dollar Cards in Nigeria

If you’re ready to get a virtual dollar card, you’re probably wondering where to get one. Well, Cardtonic is your go-to platform for that. It’s a trusted platform that makes getting a virtual dollar card simple and fast. You can sign up, choose your preferred card type, fund your virtual card and start using the card in no time.

But that’s not all Cardtonic offers. Aside from virtual dollar cards, the platform lets you pay your utility bills, like airtime, internet, or electricity—super handy, right? You can also sell and buy gift cards or even shop for gadgets. Cardtonic is a one-stop shop for all your payment needs, making online transactions smoother and more convenient than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benefits of Virtual Dollar Cards in Nigeria

1. What Is the Use of a Virtual Dollar Card?

A virtual dollar card is a prepaid card that you can use for online payments, especially for international transactions. It’s not linked to your bank account, so you can load it with a specific amount of money to use for shopping on sites like Amazon, or paying for subscriptions.

2. Which Is the Best Virtual Card for International Payments in Nigeria?

When it comes to international payments, Cardtonic’s virtual dollar card stands out. It’s secure, fast, and easy to get. Plus, it offers great flexibility for making payments worldwide.

3. What Is the Best Card to Use for Online Purchases in Nigeria?

For online purchases, especially if you’re dealing with international websites, the virtual dollar card is your best option. It’s designed specifically for online transactions and avoids the issues Naira cards face when dealing with international sites.

4. Can I Use a Virtual Card for Online Payments?

Absolutely! Virtual dollar cards are made for online payments. They work just like regular debit or credit cards, but the difference is they are safer for online transactions because they are not linked directly to your bank account. So, you can shop, pay for services, or even make international transfers securely.

5. How Can I Get a Virtual Dollar Card in Nigeria?

Getting a virtual dollar card in Nigeria is easy. You can sign up on Cardtonic, choose your preferred card type, and get a virtual card that’s ready to use within minutes.

Conclusion

Virtual dollar cards are a game-changer for online payments in Nigeria. They help you bypass Naira card restrictions, offer better security, and give you control over your spending.

Whether you’re shopping internationally or paying for subscriptions, these cards make transactions easier and safer.

With platforms like Cardtonic, getting a virtual dollar card is quick and hassle-free. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to level up your online payment game and enjoy a smoother, safer experience today!