Looking for the best credit card in Nigeria? Whether you need a Naira credit card for local spending or a Dollar credit card for international transactions, this guide compares all major options available in 2024.
Credit cards offer convenience, purchase protection, and the ability to spread payments. But they also come with risks. Let's break down everything you need to know about credit cards in Nigeria.
Types of Credit Cards in Nigeria
1. Naira Credit Cards
These work for local transactions within Nigeria. Good for everyday spending and emergencies.
2. Dollar Credit Cards
Used for international transactions—online shopping, subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify), international travel. Balances are in USD.
3. Dual-Currency Cards
Some banks offer cards that work in both Naira and Dollars, automatically converting as needed.
Best Credit Cards in Nigeria 2026
1. GTBank Naira Mastercard Credit Card
GTBank offers one of the most accessible credit cards in Nigeria for existing customers.
Requirements: GTB account, salary earner, good account history
Best for: Existing GTB customers with regular salary
2. Access Bank Diamond Credit Card
Premium card with lifestyle benefits and higher limits.
Benefits: Airport lounge access, purchase protection, rewards points
3. Zenith Bank Dollar Mastercard
Popular Dollar credit card for international transactions.
Best for: Online shopping, international payments, travel
4. UBA Platinum Credit Card
Premium credit card with comprehensive benefits.
Comparison: Best Credit Cards in Nigeria
| Card | Max Limit | Interest | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| GTBank Naira | ₦1M | 2.5%/mo | ₦5,000 |
| Access Diamond | ₦3M | 2.25%/mo | ₦15,000 |
| Zenith Dollar | $5,000 | 2%/mo | $50 |
| UBA Platinum | ₦2M | 2.5%/mo | ₦10,000 |
| First Bank Classic | ₦500K | 2.5%/mo | ₦3,500 |
How to Get a Credit Card in Nigeria
- Have an existing account: Most banks require an account for 6+ months
- Prove steady income: Salary earners have best approval rates
- Maintain good account activity: Regular deposits and clean history
- Visit your branch: Fill credit card application form
- Provide documents: ID, utility bill, salary slips
- Wait for approval: Usually 2-4 weeks
💡 Tips to Get Approved
- Start with your salary bank—they already know your income
- Don't apply to multiple banks at once
- Have at least 6 months of salary in same account
- Start with a low limit and build up
Credit Card Fees Explained
- Annual fee: Charged yearly (₦3,500 - ₦50,000+)
- Interest rate: Charged on unpaid balance (1.5% - 3% monthly)
- Late payment fee: When you miss due date
- Cash advance fee: For withdrawing cash (3-5% of amount)
- Over-limit fee: If you exceed your credit limit
- Foreign transaction fee: For Dollar cards used abroad (0-2%)
How to Use Credit Cards Wisely
Do:
- Pay full balance monthly: Avoid interest charges
- Track your spending: Don't exceed what you can afford
- Pay before due date: Avoid late fees and credit damage
- Use for emergencies: It's a safety net
- Check statements: Spot fraudulent transactions early
Don't:
- Use as extra income: You must pay it back with interest
- Make only minimum payments: Interest compounds quickly
- Withdraw cash: High fees and immediate interest
- Max out your card: Hurts credit score
- Ignore statements: Leads to debt spiral
⚠️ The Credit Card Trap
At 2.5% monthly interest, a ₦100,000 balance you don't pay off becomes ₦134,000 in just one year. Credit cards are tools—not free money. Only spend what you can repay immediately.
Credit Card vs Debit Card
| Feature | Credit Card | Debit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Source of funds | Bank's money (loan) | Your money in account |
| Interest charges | Yes, on unpaid balance | No |
| Builds credit | Yes | No |
| Fraud protection | Better | Basic |
| Overspending risk | Higher | Lower |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bank gives credit card easily in Nigeria?
GTBank and Access Bank generally have more accessible requirements for salary earners. Having your salary account with them significantly improves approval chances.
Can I get a credit card without a job?
It's difficult. Most banks require proof of regular income. Business owners may qualify with bank statements showing consistent deposits.
What happens if I don't pay my credit card?
Late fees accumulate, interest compounds, your credit score suffers, and the bank may take legal action. Persistent non-payment can result in debt collection and blacklisting.