On January 31, 2026, at a high-profile ceremony held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria’s leading digital financial services platform OPay was named Fintech/Digital Bank of the Year 2025 at The Sun Awards—a newly introduced category that underscores the growing influence of financial technology in the country’s economy.
The recognition, organised by The Sun Publishing Limited, one of Nigeria’s most respected media institutions, marks a historic milestone. It is the first time a Fintech/Digital Bank category has been included in the awards’ roster, reflecting the rapid evolution and importance of digital financial solutions in everyday life.
A Win for Financial Inclusion and Innovation
According to the official statement from OPay, the award acknowledges the platform’s role in building a reliable, inclusive, and user-friendly digital financial ecosystem that millions of Nigerians interact with daily. OPay’s integrated services—which include mobile banking, digital wallets, fast payments, merchant solutions, and lifestyle features—were highlighted as key drivers making financial services more accessible across the nation.
The recognition reinforces OPay’s position at the forefront of bridging traditional banking systems with the digital economy, enabling people and businesses to transact, save, and grow with greater convenience. For many Nigerians, OPay has become more than an app—it functions as a trusted financial partner in daily life.
Reactions from OPay Leadership
Speaking on the honour, Adekunle Adedotun, OPay’s COO/CTO, described the accolade as a “welcome development” and a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation. He emphasised The Sun’s role in journalism and how the recognition would serve as motivation for OPay to continue expanding access to financial services—whether on Android or Apple devices—so that users nationwide can enjoy inclusive banking solutions.
Similarly, Elizabeth Wang, Chief Commercial Officer of OPay, noted that the award is a strong validation of the company’s long-term commitment to Nigeria. She explained that being named the first recipient of the Fintech/Digital Bank of the Year category not only honours OPay as a corporate entity but also reflects the trust millions of Nigerians place in the platform every day. The company reaffirmed its dedication to building secure, reliable, and inclusive financial solutions that support individuals and help businesses thrive.
Strategic Importance and Broader Impact
The Sun Award win positions OPay not just as a leader in fintech, but as a key player in Nigeria’s broader economic transformation. By integrating digital financial services into the everyday lives of consumers and merchants alike, OPay continues to advance financial inclusion, particularly for those previously underserved by traditional banking.
The award’s significance is further amplified by the fact that it is newly established, signalling media recognition of fintech’s central role in Nigeria’s economic development and digital adoption. The win solidifies OPay’s reputation as an innovator capable of shaping the future of finance in Africa’s largest economy.
A Shared Win with Users and Partners
OPay emphasised that the honour is not just a corporate milestone but a shared achievement with its wide network of users, merchants, and partners across the country. The company reiterated that ongoing investments in secure infrastructure, customer experience, and local partnerships will remain central to its mission as it supports Nigeria’s expanding digital economy.
Founded in 2018, OPay has grown rapidly, offering a suite of financial services such as money transfers, bill payments, card services, airtime and data purchases, and merchant payments. Licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and insured by the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation—with protection comparable to that offered by commercial banks—OPay continues to innovate while maintaining strong security measures for its customers’ financial activities.