Since entering Nigeria in 2019, asset financing company M-KOPA has deployed more than ₦231 billion ($170.34 million) in credit to over one million customers, positioning smartphone financing as one of the fastest-growing entry points into formal credit for low-income Nigerians. According to the company’s latest impact report, women account for 33% of borrowers, and 52% of them are accessing credit for the first time through its platform. The company says the deployed credit has unlocked ₦320 billion ($235.97 million) in digital credit. The lending spans financed smartphones and cash loans, underscoring the company’s evolution from its original solar home systems business. Across Nigeria, embedded finance models are expanding access to consumer credit outside traditional banks. By tying ...