FirstBank, Pointek partner to expand access to gadgets

FirstBank of Nigeria Limited has partnered with technology retailer Pointek to expand access to smartphones, laptops, tablets and other essential electronic devices through its FirstEase Buy-Now-Pay-Later digital lending solution.

The partnership enables eligible customers to purchase products from Pointek outlets and spread payments over flexible repayment periods of up to 180 days.

Under the arrangement, customers can access the FirstEase solution through FirstBank’s FirstMobile and LIT applications, with the initiative designed to make essential gadgets more affordable for salary earners, professionals, entrepreneurs and other eligible customers.

Speaking at the partnership announcement in Lagos on Wednesday, FirstBank’s Group Head, e-Business and Retail Products, Abednego Ugwueke, said the collaboration was aimed at addressing the financial challenges customers face when purchasing electronic devices.

He explained that many people require smartphones and other gadgets with improved storage capacity, memory and functionality for their work and daily activities but may struggle to pay the full cost upfront.

According to him, FirstEase allows customers to acquire the products they need immediately while spreading payments over an agreed period.

Ugwueke said the partnership would make the lending solution more accessible by integrating it into customers’ shopping experience.

He added that the initiative reflected FirstBank’s commitment to innovation, financial inclusion and responsible access to financial services.

“Our objective is to help customers access products they need in a responsible and sustainable manner,” he said, adding that customers would receive transparent information about eligibility requirements and repayment terms to enable informed decisions.

Also speaking, FirstBank’s Head of Personal Banking, Chukwuka Okonkwo, said the partnership built on the bank’s experience in digital lending and its investment in platforms designed to simplify access to credit.

He said the solution was developed to provide a seamless digital lending experience, with access available through the bank’s mobile applications and Pointek’s online platform.

Okonkwo explained that the service was initially being tested among salaried customers, with plans to expand its reach as the initiative develops.

He said the arrangement would allow eligible customers to obtain products when needed and repay at their convenience, subject to the applicable terms.

The bank said the initiative complemented its broader efforts to use digital technology to improve access to financial services and provide customers with more flexible payment options.

Director of Business at Pointek, Dr Godwin Ajala, said access to mobile devices had become increasingly important because of their role in education, employment, entrepreneurship and everyday communication.

He noted that smartphones had evolved beyond communication tools to become essential instruments for acquiring skills, discovering employment opportunities and connecting people to economic activities.

However, he said affordability remained a barrier for many Nigerians seeking to own suitable devices.

Ajala said the partnership would help address this challenge by combining Pointek’s access to technology products with FirstBank’s financing capabilities.

He explained that Pointek’s role extended beyond selling electronic devices to connecting Nigerians with tools that could support their personal and professional development.

According to him, the initiative’s broader value lies in the opportunities that access to technology can create, particularly for individuals and businesses seeking to expand their economic activities.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.