Nigerian Remittance Customers Deprived of Choice

Nigerian Remittance Customers Deprived of Choice  

LAGOS, Nigeria, August 3, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

Xpress Money, one of the worlds most dependable money transfer brands has called for a liberalization of remittance markets towards an open structure to create economic efficiencies and equality in Nigeria. The international money transfer brand is disappointed by the recent developments within the money transfer industry in Nigeria.

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The dismay comes from that fact that Nigeria was once a monopolistic country from a remittance perspective that broke away from the shackles of exclusivity to embark on the path of growth and development. This commendable step taken by the authorities saw Nigeria increase its inward remittances by over 12% from around USD 18 billion in 2009 to over USD 20.5 billion in 2015 (World Bank figures). Nigeria today enjoys the status of being the 5^th largest remittance receiving country in the world that had managed to successfully convert informal channels of remittances to formal channels, owing to the open policy.

Talking about the sudden development in the industry, Sudhesh Giriyan, COO of Xpress Money, expressing his disappointment said, "Nigeria was a good example of how an open market worked favorably not only for the customers but the economy at large. The cost of remittances to Sub-Saharan Africa today stands at 9.72%, down from 12% in 2009, a clear indication of a successful implementation of non-exclusive frameworks in various countries. This overnight decision in Nigeria to restrict money transfer services to less than a handful of brands is likely to have significant negative impact. Customers will be deprived of choice as the industry will be limited to just a few money transfer brands. Taking advantage of their position, these brands could soon boost their cost of remittances to suit their palate, neglecting the benefit and convenience of customers. Customers may then have to resort to illegal channels of money transfer to avoid digging a huge hole in their pockets to send money to their families and friends in Nigeria."
"This could adversely affect the economy of the country as money entering the country through illegal channels cannot be accounted for. It saddens us to see the current state of events as our customers are the ones who will be deeply impacted by this decision." he concluded.

About 'Xpress Money'
'Xpress Money' is a global money transfer brand with a thriving presence in more than 160 countries across all continents through 180,000 agent locations. 'Xpress Money' has come to be known as the most dependable international money transfer brand and provides its customers a simple, fast & safe way to transfer money through innovative technology, superior customer service and its extensive worldwide network. For more information, follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/XpressMoney, Twitter: @Xpress_Money or visit http://www.xpressmoney.com

SOURCE Xpress Money
CONTACT: Media
Contacts: Xpress Money - Alisha Fernandes; alisha.fernandes@xpressmoney.com ; +971-4-8186185