Why Nigerian Cards Don't Support Payments On Google Play, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok And Others

June 23, 2023

Why Nigerian Cards Don't Support Payments On Google Play, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok And Others

It is highly unlikely that Nigerian cards are universally not supported to run popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. These platforms are designed to be accessible to users worldwide, including Nigeria. However, there might be specific instances where some Nigerian cards may face issues while attempting to make transactions or use certain features on these platforms.

The reason why your Nigerian debit card is not functioning on Google Play is due to a federal law that imposes restrictions on foreign exchange (FX) transactions. Previously, international transactions were allowed on naira cards with a monthly limit on international spending. I recall facing a similar issue when I attempted to pay for a website theme using my Access card. The transaction limit was a concern back then, but the situation has changed. Presently, even a $10 international transaction can be quite troublesome.

Therefore, it is important to understand that the reason your debit card is not working has nothing to do with insufficient funds. In 2022, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) implemented FX transaction restrictions across all commercial banks. This regulation was apparently enacted due to a scarcity of US dollars circulating in the country.

There could be several reasons for such problems:

Technical issues: Sometimes, technical glitches or errors can occur, resulting in temporary difficulties accessing or using certain features of social media platforms. These issues are generally not limited to specific regions or card types.
Payment restrictions: Some social media platforms offer paid services or advertising features that require users to make transactions. In certain cases, Nigerian banks or financial institutions might have restrictions on international transactions, which could affect card usage on these platforms. This is not unique to Nigeria and can happen with cards issued by banks in other countries as well.
Security measures: Online platforms, including social media, have security measures in place to protect user accounts and prevent fraudulent activities. If a particular card or bank has been associated with suspicious activities, the platform might temporarily restrict or block its usage as a precautionary measure.

NOTE: If you are facing issues with your Nigerian card on social media platforms, it is advisable to reach out to the customer support of the respective platform or your bank for assistance. They will be able to provide specific information and guidance based on your situation.

Watch how to make online payments with Nigerian cards for Google ads, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok