THE SHORT VERSION / How to pay for things in Nigeria and Ghana during Detty December
In Nigeria, bank transfer and local bank cards are the main ways to pay, and most card machines only take Nigerian cards, so carry naira cash unless a local friend can pay for you. In Ghana, mobile money (MoMo) and cards are common, with cedi cash for beaches and markets. Change some money at the airport and carry small notes.
- Nigeria
- Naira (₦)
- Ghana
- Cedi (GH₵)
- Nigeria pays by
- Transfer, POS card
- Ghana pays by
- MoMo, card
- Nigeria tip
- Carry naira cash
- Carry
- Small notes
How do people pay in Nigeria?
- Bank transfer: the default for almost everything, from restaurants to drivers. Vendors show an account number and you transfer from a Nigerian bank app.
- Card machines (POS): everywhere, but most only accept Nigerian bank cards. Some top restaurants, hotels and lounges take international cards.
- Naira cash: the safe default for visitors, unless a local friend can pay by card or transfer and you repay them. Cash shortages have happened in the past, so don't rely on ATMs alone.
How do people pay in Ghana?
- Mobile money (MoMo): MTN MoMo and other wallets are everywhere, from shops to taxis.
- Cards: accepted in malls, hotels and upscale restaurants in Accra.
- Cedi cash: needed for markets, beaches, tro-tros and small vendors.
How to get naira and cedi at a fair rate
- Use a regulated money app (such as Wise or LemFi) to send money to a local account or to a friend who can pay for you.
- Withdraw from ATMs inside banks or malls for cash, and check your bank's foreign fees first.
- Change some money at the airport for your first days.
- Street changers in Lagos: only with a trusted Nigerian contact helping you.
- Tell your bank you're travelling so your card isn't blocked.
Nigeria vs Ghana: how to pay
| Nigeria | Ghana | |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Naira (₦) | Cedi (GH₵) |
| Most common payment | Bank transfer | Mobile money (MoMo) |
| Cards | POS widely used | Malls, hotels, restaurants |
| Cash needed for | Street food, tips, beaches | Markets, beaches, transport |
| Tipping | Around 10% at restaurants if not included | Around 10% at restaurants if not included |
How much cash should you carry?
Carry enough local cash for one or two days of small spending: food stalls, tips, beach fees and emergency rides. Keep the rest on cards or in an app, and split cash between two places.
5 money mistakes to avoid
- Relying on one card: bring two cards from different banks.
- Carrying only big notes: small vendors often can't give change.
- Paying deposits to strangers by transfer: see our scams guide.
- Forgetting currency conversion fees: choose to pay in local currency, not your home currency.
- Not budgeting for December prices: use our budget calculator.
THE PRACTICAL DETAILS
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use my foreign card in Nigeria?
Only in some places. Most card machines in Lagos are set up for Nigerian bank cards. Some top restaurants, hotels and lounges accept international cards. Carry naira cash, or go out with a local friend who can pay by card or transfer.
What is MoMo in Ghana?
MoMo is mobile money, a phone-based wallet used for everyday payments in Ghana. MTN MoMo is the most widely used.
Should I bring cash to Detty December?
Bring some for small vendors, beaches and tips, but don't carry large amounts. Use cards and money apps for most spending.
