By 
6?s with Alade Adeleke of Wema Bank
What is Wema Virtual Airtime?
Wema Virtual Airtime is an electronic solution that allows users to purchase GSM recharge vouchers through their mobile phones. Instead of buying physical cards, customers can conveniently refill their phones with airtime electronically, anywhere and anytime.
Why should people use Wema Virtual Airtime?
The convenience is undeniable. You can purchase airtime 24/7, from anywhere. This eliminate the need for last-minute trips to buy recharge cards. It’s also cheaper and allows multiple purchases at once. This means you can easily buy airtime for both yourself and your loved ones.
How can someone sign up
How exactly does the service work, and how can someone sign up?
First, you need an account with any of our connected branches. To get started, you’ll fill out a Mobile Banking Application form. Provide your account details and GSM number. Once processed, you’ll receive our mobile banking line and instructions on how to send an SMS in a specific format to purchase airtime.
For example, if you want to buy ₦500 worth of airtime for Vmobile, you’d send an SMS in this format: XXXX.AIR.E.500. For ₦1000 airtime, you’d send XXXX.AIR.E.1000. The same process applies for MTN and Glo users, except you’ll use the operator-specific codes: ‘M’ for MTN and ‘G’ for Globacom.
Non-account holders can also visit any of our connected branches, complete the necessary steps, and sign up to use the service.
Many Nigerians are wary of electronic transactions, even for simple tasks like buying airtime. How secure is Wema Virtual Airtime?
Security is a top priority for Wema Virtual Airtime. The service is protected by a PIN (Personal Identification Number), ensuring that only the registered subscriber can access it. Additionally, airtime requests can only be processed for the registered GSM number. Every time you make a request, your account balance linked to Wema Virtual Airtime is also sent to you, providing added assurance and transparency.
Is Wema Virtual Airtime only designed for certain socio-economic groups, or can anyone use it, including traders, students, or average-income earners?
Wema Virtual Airtime is designed for everyone. Whether you’re a student, trader, or an average-income earner, the service is accessible to all categories of GSM phone owners. We’ve ensured that it’s inclusive and meets the needs of a wide range of users.
How does Wema Virtual Airtime complement your core banking services?
Wema Mobile Banking, which includes the Virtual Airtime service, is all about making banking more convenient for our customers. By reducing transaction costs and offering quicker access to information, customers can manage their finances more efficiently. Since mobile phones are widely used in Nigeria, we’ve integrated this medium to provide customers with easy access to their accounts. Virtual Airtime is just one of the many value-added services available through Wema Mobile Banking.
