FirstBank, Zenith Bank, GTB Raise Dollar Limits on Naira Cards
By Aboki Forex —
Zenith Bank, FirstBank and Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) have raised the spending limits on their naira cards for international transactions. The banks announced the upward review in separate emailed messages to customers on Monday.
The move comes as the naira continues to strengthen, helped by improved foreign exchange liquidity and a build-up in external reserves. Customers will now have more room to pay for school fees, airline tickets, accommodation and other international expenses.
GTBank raises quarterly limit to $40,000
GTBank made one of the most significant adjustments. The bank raised the quarterly international spending limit on its naira cards to $40,000.
That is a 566.7 per cent increase from the $6,000 quarterly limit announced in May 2026. It also doubles the $20,000 limit in place as of August 10, 2026.
FirstBank, Zenith and UBA
FirstBank also expanded access for its customers. Previously, quarterly limits were $1,000 for online and Point-of-Sale (POS) transactions and $500 for Automated Teller Machine (ATM) withdrawals.
Now, its Naira Mastercard supports international transactions of up to a cumulative quarterly limit of $10,000 across POS and online channels. The bank also increased its ATM withdrawal limit to $1,000 daily.
Zenith Bank allows international transactions of up to $50,000 annually on its naira cards. United Bank for Africa (UBA) permits spending of up to $20,000 on POS transactions through its World USD card and up to $10,000 for online transactions.
What it means for the naira
The upward review reflects improving conditions in the foreign exchange market. It follows reforms by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) aimed at boosting liquidity, attracting foreign capital and strengthening confidence in the naira.