Connect with us

General News

Growing Demand for Aviation Connectivity Is At Risk-IATA

Published

on

Tony Tyler, IATA DG and CEO
Kindly share this post

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has continued to advice governments on empowering aviation to deliver more value, noting that growing demand for aviation connectivity is at risk.

IATA urged governments to re-commit themselves to the ideals of airline deregulation and the free market, so as to permit aviation to continue to deliver the benefits of global connectivity that make possible $2.2 trillion worth of economic activity.

Tony Tyler, IATA DG and CEO said that “Airlines are the transit system for the global economy; and they have transformed commerce every bit as thoroughly as the automobile transformed America. But our ability to meet the growing demand for connectivity is at risk”.

Addressing the Wings Club in New York, during the week, Tyler said the threat does not come from market forces. “Our biggest challenge comes from governments that are engaging in what I would broadly describe as regulatory backtracking.”

“This is a global issue, but it is particularly distressing to find that the United States, where this industry was born and which led the world in liberalizing domestic and international air transport, seems to be moving forward into the past. Apparently policy makers in Washington no longer trust the invisible hand of the marketplace to maintain a vibrant, competitive industry—despite overwhelming evidence that the market is working. The net result is not just bad for airlines, but for air travelers and the economy.”

Tyler cited regulation, distribution, consolidation and taxation as four areas where the market is not being permitted to operate efficiently.

He said: “The airline industry may be deregulated to the extent that carriers are permitted to set their fares according to demand. But regulators aim to design the details of competition in a manner that is wholly at odds with how other industries are treated and with the workings of the free market. In particular, they appear determined to hold commercial aviation to a different business standard than they impose on any other form of transportation—or consumer facing activities.

“It is totally appropriate to set simple minimum customer service standards. But that’s not what’s happening. Regulators are micro-managing our businesses, telling us how we may advertise our services, how long we must hold a reservation that has not been paid for and how we are to manage operational disruptions regardless of the cause. These regulations impose a huge penalty on the economy and ultimately raise the cost of air travel for all consumers.”

Airlines are committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers and recognize the need for passengers to have access to basic protections during their journey.

To that end, IATA members recently affirmed a set of core principles on consumer protection that aim to strike a balance between protecting passengers while maintaining industry competitiveness and recognizing the power of the marketplace.

“Standards enable innovation and efficiency and make it possible for incumbents and new entrants to work from the same blueprint. We believe an NDC standard will enhance the air travel shopping experience for passengers. But, let me assure you of a few things. NDC will operate within the same privacy laws that govern every other business. That is no change from today. But, by giving travel agents more information, there will be greater transparency. The NDC standard will enable much richer comparison shopping for travel products, not just the base fare, but the entire spectrum of offerings.”

Tyler argued that aviation needs to be treated like other industries when it comes to consolidation. “It is a fact that consolidation has resulted in a healthier, more profitable industry and that is good news for travelers as well, because it means airlines have the financial wherewithal to invest in their products and services. And US government data show that service is improving on the things that matter most to customers such as punctuality and baggage delivery. Yet airlines face higher hurdles than other businesses when it comes to mergers and acquisition.”

“We recently were reminded of this when the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced it would sue to prevent the merger of American Airlines and US Airways. I am not an expert on US antitrust policy, but I do know something about the airline industry and I have to agree with those in the investment community and elsewhere who have found DOJ’s arguments to be faulty and unpersuasive.”

Aviation is taxed at levels far exceeding those of most other activities, but too little of that money finds its way into infrastructure investment. “Fees and taxes represent around 20% of the average US domestic ticket and totaled $18.9 billion last year, according to data from Airlines for America. And Administration proposals for the 2014 fiscal year include a slew of tax increases and new fees adding further billions to the cost of air travel,” said Tyler.

“In a little less than 100 years, commercial aviation has transformed the world. This year, we expect airlines to carry more than 3 billion passengers—equivalent to around 44% of the Earth’s population and we make possible $2.2 trillion worth of economic activity. By value, over 35% of the goods traded internationally are transported by air. Within the United States, aviation contributes some $669.5 billion of gross value added (GVA) annually, equivalent to 4.9% of GDP, and supports 9.3 million jobs. Our message is ‘Let us make the second century of air transport even more remarkable than the first”.


Kindly share this post

Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

General News

Top 7 Reliable Virtual Cards for Running Ads in Nigeria

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Meta Description: Tired of ad payment failures? Discover the most reliable virtual cards in Nigeria for running Facebook, Google, and TikTok ads without interruptions.

One of the biggest challenges digital marketers face in Nigeria today is finding a payment method that actually works for ad platforms.

Issues like frequent transaction failures, unexpected restrictions, and constantly changing bank policies can interrupt your campaigns at the worst possible time, making it hard to stay consistent.

That’s why many marketers are now turning to virtual cards, which offer a more stable, globally accepted way to handle online payments without the usual stress.

If you’re currently dealing with failed payments or need a more reliable way to run ads, this article will walk you through the most reliable virtual card options in Nigeria and help you choose what works best.

7 Best Virtual Cards You Can Use in Nigeria for Running Ads

Choosing the right virtual card for running ads in Nigeria isn’t just about availability; it’s about transaction success rate, global acceptance, funding speed, fees, and overall reliability.

To make things easier, the table below highlights how Cardtonic, Wallets Africa, CashBuddy, Snappypay, Pouchers, Bitmama, and Flip by Fluidcoins compare across key features that matter for running ads effectively.

PlatformBest ForPrice rangeSupported CountriesNotable Features
CardtonicReliable ad payments$1.5-$5 (card creation)Nigeria, Ghana (2+)Easy card creation, quick funding, widely accepted
Wallets AfricaBasic virtual card use$2-$5 (est.)10+ African countrieswallet + virtual card system
CashBuddySimple payments$2.50Nigeria (primary)straightforward card access, bill pay
SnappypayQuick transactionsN/ANigeria & select regionsFast setup, easy online spending
PouchersFlexible funding$2Nigeria & limited globalDirect wallet to ads support
BitmamaCrypto-based paymentsFree issuanceMultiple countries (10+)crypto funding + global spending
Flip by FluidcoinsFast crypto payments$1.30Multiple Countries (10+)Crypto payment focus

1. Cardtonic:

Cardtonic is often regarded as one of the best virtual cards in Nigeria for running ads because it combines convenience, reliability, and ease of use in a way that suits both individuals and businesses.

When you’re paying for ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Google, or TikTok, one of the biggest concerns is whether your payment method will work smoothly without constant declines or interruptions. That is where Cardtonic comes in, as it gives users access to a virtual dollar card designed for international payments, making it a practical choice for ad spending.

What makes the platform even more appealing is that it also offers contactless cards, which let you make payments quickly and securely without swiping or inserting the card. This feature adds an extra layer of convenience for users who want fast transactions, whether online or at supported payment terminals.

What truly makes Cardtonic stand out is how it brings together accessibility, smooth funding, and reliable international payment support in one place.

So, if you are looking for a reliable platform for ad payments, Cardtonic is one option that clearly deserves a spot on the list.

2. Wallet Africa:

Wallets Africa is meant for users who want more than just a card to pay for ads. It works better as an all-in-one financial platform, which makes it useful for business owners, freelancers, and marketers who like managing payments from one place.

Beyond offering virtual cards, the platform is built around sending money, spending online, and handling digital transactions across Africa, so it feels broader than a tool meant for one single purpose.

That broader structure is really where Wallets Africa plays its role. For someone running ads regularly, it can be convenient to have a platform that supports both wallet functions and card payments instead of jumping between different apps.

It is less about being flashy and more about giving users a practical setup for online spending, especially when you want your ad payments to sit within a wider money management system.

3. Cashbuddy:

CashBuddy feels more like a platform for users who value simplicity and speed. Its offering goes beyond virtual cards into other digital payment services, but the virtual card side is positioned around secure dollar and naira card access for global payments.

That makes it useful for advertisers who want something straightforward for campaign payments without dealing with too much complexity.

Where CashBuddy plays its role best is in accessibility. It fits users who may not need an advanced financial ecosystem but just want a platform that helps them get a working card and handle international payments with less stress.

So while some platforms lean into broader wallet features or multicurrency tools, CashBuddy feels more like the practical option for getting started and keeping things easy to manage.

4. Snappypay:

Snappypay has a slightly different appeal because it presents itself strongly around smooth online payments and virtual dollar cards that can be used across many platforms.

That makes it a natural fit for people who run ads often and do not want a card that feels limited to only one or two use cases. The platform also combines its virtual cards with other digital payment services, which adds to the convenience for users already handling several online expenses at once.

What makes Snappypay useful in this list is that it feels built for everyday digital spending. If Wallets Africa comes across as more ecosystem-driven and CashBuddy feels more basic and direct, Snappypay sits in the middle as the platform for users who want a smoother, more flexible payment experience for ads, subscriptions, and other online transactions without overcomplicating the process.

5. Pouchers:

Pouchers is one of the more ad-friendly options here because it explicitly positions its virtual dollar card for payments on platforms like Meta and for running ads.

That makes its role in this list much clearer. Instead of leaving users to guess whether the card may work for ad spend, the platform directly presents that use case as one of its strengths, which gives it more relevance for marketers and business owners.

Another thing that makes Pouchers different is its multicurrency and stablecoin angle, which gives it a more modern, borderless feel compared with platforms that are built mainly around local wallet operations.

So, for users whose work already involves international payments, online tools, and ad platforms, Pouchers plays its role as the flexible option that is shaped more around digital commerce than traditional payment habits.

6. Bitmama:

Bitmama plays a more specialized role because it is better known for combining crypto and borderless payments. That already sets it apart from the more conventional platforms on this list.

For advertisers or freelancers who are already comfortable moving money through digital assets, Bitmama can feel like a more flexible option, especially when international transactions are part of their normal workflow.

This makes it less of an everyday beginner platform and more of a fit for users who like operating in a more global, digital-first payment environment.

So while a platform like CashBuddy may appeal to someone looking for a simple starting point, Bitmama feels more suited to users who want ad payments to sit within a wider international or crypto-enabled setup. That difference gives it a distinct place on the list.

7. Flip By Fluidcoins:

Flip by Fluidcoins leans into the crypto-powered side of digital payments, positioning itself as a faster, more lightweight option for users who want flexibility with cross-border transactions.

Its strength is not in trying to cover everything, but in serving a more niche group of users who already understand digital finance and need a smoother way to handle international payments, especially for ad spending.

What sets it apart is its modern, alternative approach. It focuses less on traditional banking features and more on giving users fewer restrictions when moving funds globally.

For advertisers in that space, it works best as a flexible, niche solution rather than a full all-in-one financial platform.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Cards For Running Ads in Nigeria

  1. Which Virtual Card is Best For Running Ads in Nigeria?

The best dollar virtual card in Nigeria for running ads is Cardtonic. It’s widely trusted for its reliability, smooth international payments, and ease of use, making it a practical choice for managing ad spend without interruptions.

  1. Can I Use a Virtual Card to Pay for Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or TikTok Ads?

Yes, you can. Most virtual cards issued by platforms in Nigeria, like Cardtonic, Pouchers, or CashBuddy, are accepted on major advertising platforms, including Google, Facebook, and TikTok.

  1. How Do I Fund a Virtual Card for Advertising Campaigns in Nigeria?

Funding a virtual card is usually straightforward. Most platforms allow you to load funds from your local bank account, Naira wallet, or even crypto wallets in some cases. Simply log into your virtual card account, choose the funding method, enter the amount, and confirm. Once the funds reflect, you can start running ads immediately.

  1. Are Virtual Cards Secure For Paying International Ad Platforms?

Yes, virtual cards are designed to be secure. They often include features such as temporary card numbers, spend limits, and the ability to block or freeze the card instantly if needed.

  1. How Fast Can I Get a Virtual Card and Start Running Ads Online?

You can usually get a virtual card almost instantly after signing up and completing the KYC verification process. Platforms like Cardtonic or Snappypay issue cards immediately, so you can fund the card and start running ads within minutes.

Conclusion

Running ads on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, or Google from Nigeria can be challenging without a reliable payment method. That’s why virtual cards offer a convenient and secure solution, allowing you to fund your campaigns quickly and manage payments without interruptions.

Whether you’re looking to pay for TikTok ads, Google Ads, or other online campaigns, platforms like Wallets Africa, CashBuddy, Snappypay, Pouchers, Bitmama, and Flip by Fluidcoins all offer options to suit different needs.

For those who want a combination of reliability, ease of use, and smooth international payments, Cardtonic is highly recommended for managing your ad spending efficiently.

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

NiRA Charges Media to Drive Nationwide Adoption of .ng Domain

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Adesola Akinsanya, President of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association, has called on the media to lead a nationwide campaign for the urgent adoption of the .ng domain to strengthen Nigeria’s digital identity.

NiRA Charges Media to Drive Nationwide Adoption of .ng Domain

Adesola Akinsanya, President of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA)

Akinsanya made the call during the .ng Media Advocacy and Capacity Building Initiative held on Thursday at the association’s secretariat in Lagos.

He said the media had a strategic role to play, not only in reporting developments but also in shaping national priorities and influencing public understanding of digital infrastructure.

“The media does not just report events; it sets the agenda. We need you to lead the campaign for the urgent adoption of .ng and help Nigerians understand why it matters,” he said.

Akinsanya emphasised that Nigeria’s digital identity must be deliberately constructed and protected, noting that domain names remain a critical component of national presence in the global digital ecosystem.

According to him, many Nigerian businesses and institutions continue to operate on foreign domains such as .com and .org, thereby placing their digital assets outside the country’s jurisdiction.

“Thousands of Nigerian organisations are effectively operating on rented digital land, where control, security, and governance are subject to foreign regulations,” he said.

He explained that the .ng domain, managed by NiRA under the global coordination of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, represents an important layer of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

He described domain names as digital real estate that determine visibility, credibility, and economic value creation within the digital economy.

The NiRA president warned that reliance on foreign domains contributes to a trust deficit, economic leakage, and increased security vulnerabilities.

“In an era where users are increasingly concerned about authenticity, locally identifiable domains provide stronger assurance and alignment with national systems,” he said.

Akinsanya added that while technological improvements such as DNS Security Extensions are strengthening the .ng ecosystem, widespread adoption remains essential.

He noted that the initiative was designed to bridge the gap between technical complexity and public understanding, particularly in areas such as internet governance, cybersecurity, and domain infrastructure.

According to him, Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global digital economy will depend on the alignment of infrastructure, adoption, and narrative.

He reaffirmed NiRA’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure and promoting the use of the .ng domain, while calling for sustained collaboration with the media.

“The story of Nigeria’s internet is still being written. Whether it reflects dependence or sovereignty will depend on the narratives we promote,” he said.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

General News

Nigeria Unveils DNSSEC to Tackle Rising Cyber Threats, Strengthen Digital Trust

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Nigeria has unveiled Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC) on its .ng domain, marking a major step toward strengthening national cybersecurity and enhancing trust in the country’s digital ecosystem.

Nigeria Unveils DNSSEC to Tackle Rising Cyber Threats, Strengthen Digital Trust

NiRA

The deployment was carried out by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association, the body responsible for managing Nigeria’s country code top-level domain.

The development places Nigeria among countries adopting advanced technologies to secure their internet infrastructure and support a resilient digital economy.

DNSSEC is an internet security protocol designed to protect users from cyber threats such as redirection to fraudulent websites, by adding cryptographic verification to the domain name system.

Speaking at the unveiling, the President of NiRA, Adesola Akinsanya, described the deployment as a defining moment for Nigeria’s internet ecosystem.

“The successful deployment of DNSSEC on the .ng domain represents a major milestone. As more services move online, it is critical to ensure a secure and trusted digital environment for citizens, businesses, and government,” he said.

Akinsanya added that the initiative aligns with global best practices and underscores Nigeria’s commitment to building a secure and competitive digital economy.

He noted that strengthening trust in the .ng domain would create an enabling environment for innovation, investment, and growth in digital services.

According to him, a secure domain name system is fundamental to the development of the digital economy.

The NiRA president also urged organisations, particularly those operating critical services, to adopt DNSSEC as part of their cybersecurity frameworks.

The initiative is expected to benefit sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, e-commerce, and government platforms by offering enhanced protection against cyber threats including phishing and data interception.

Institutions regulated by bodies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Communications Commission are among those expected to gain from the improved security framework.

The deployment also aligns with Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda supported by agencies such as the National Information Technology Development Agency and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

The Chief Operating Officer of NiRA said the .ng domain had been fully signed and was currently in a monitoring phase to ensure stability and optimal performance.

He added that a phased rollout would allow accredited registrars and domain owners to adopt DNSSEC protection for their individual domains.

“This deployment is the result of extensive planning and collaboration. Our focus now is to ensure seamless adoption across the ecosystem,” he said.

NiRA called on businesses and organisations to leverage the new capability and embrace the .ng domain as a secure and trusted digital identity.

The association said it would continue to work with stakeholders to drive awareness, build capacity, and accelerate adoption nationwide.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending