Providus Bank: What You Need to Know Before You Open an Account

Thinking about Providus Bank? Good choice to consider — especially if you want a digital-first bank that focuses on businesses and fast, modern services. Providus started with a clear aim: serve small businesses and tech-savvy customers with straightforward digital tools.

Before you commit, here’s a practical look at what they offer, how to get started, and what to watch out for.

Products and services that matter

Providus offers current and savings accounts for individuals and businesses, corporate banking, SME lending, POS and merchant services, and debit cards. Their loan options often target small and medium enterprises — think working capital and asset finance rather than big corporate loans. If you run a small business, their SME packages and quick digital onboarding may be what you need.

On the consumer side, you’ll find regular savings products and cards that work for everyday use. They also provide payment gateway services for online stores, which is handy if you sell online and need smooth payment integration.

Digital banking: app, web and security

Providus is digital-first. You can sign up, transfer money, pay bills, and apply for loans through their mobile app or internet banking. The app is designed to be simple and fast — but always check recent user reviews for performance and uptime before you rely on it for business-critical tasks.

Security features include transaction alerts, two-factor authentication, and fraud monitoring. Don’t skip basic safety steps: set a strong PIN, enable alerts, and avoid public Wi‑Fi when doing financial transactions.

How to open an account (quick steps)

Requirements are standard: valid ID (passport, driver’s licence or national ID), proof of address, passport photo, and a completed account form. For business accounts you’ll need company incorporation documents, authorized signatories’ IDs, and a recent utility bill or bank reference. Many steps are handled online, but some business accounts may require a branch visit for verification.

Fees, rates and customer service

Fees vary by product. Expect charges for transfers, card issuance, and some merchant services. Interest rates on savings are modest — check their published rates before moving large balances. Customer service is reachable by phone, chat and email; however, response times can vary. If prompt help matters to you, test their support with a small query first.

Quick tips: compare Providus fees to other Nigerian banks, read recent app reviews, and confirm SME loan terms before applying. If you run an online business, ask about their payment gateway fees and settlement times.

Want updates or the latest customer experiences? Check reviews and news on Daily Africa Global News to see how Providus is performing now and whether new products or partnerships affect your decision.

Central Bank of Nigeria Greenlights Unity and Providus Banks' Merger to Strengthen Financial Sector

Central Bank of Nigeria Greenlights Unity and Providus Banks' Merger to Strengthen Financial Sector

Ryno Ellis
7 Aug 2024

The Central Bank of Nigeria has given the green light for the merger of Unity Bank Plc and Providus Bank Limited as part of efforts to strengthen the country's financial system. The move includes financial support of N700 billion to ensure the stability of the new entity.