Kano Fintech Nod Launches Payments App

Nod, a fintech startup built in Kano, has launched its payments app for individuals and businesses. The app was announced on 8 November 2026 in Kano. Nod was founded by four Nigerian entrepreneurs: Samiu Salihu (Founder and Executive Chairman), Abubakar Sadiq Umar (CEO), Aminu Babayo Shehu (CTO), and Bello Garba (COO).

Every Nod user gets their own account number. They can send money to any Nigerian bank or wallet. They can also send money free and instantly to other Nod users by @username. The app is available on Android and iOS.

Nod cuts out steps that slow people down when paying someone. Users can scan an account number with the phone camera, even from a handwritten note. They can say an account number out loud instead of typing it. They can also use @usernames, QR codes, and payment requests.

Fake transfer alerts and edited receipts are a daily problem for traders in Nigeria. Every Nod receipt carries a QR code and a check code that anyone can confirm at getnod.co/verify. This allows users to see whether the payment really happened.

Businesses on Nod get a business profile and their own payment QR code. They also get a cashier view so staff can confirm payments at the till, invoices, and sales tracking. Once a business is verified, it gets its own account in its CAC-registered name.

Nod is piloting Nod Business on the web with selected businesses. It adds salary and bulk payments, along with an AI assistant. Owners can ask the assistant about their sales, spending, and payments. The assistant cannot move money. Every payout is approved by the business owner in the app with their PIN.

“NOD was born out of real customer pain points,” said Abubakar Sadiq Umar, Co-founder and CEO. “We listened to individuals, traders and business owners and saw how everyday financial tasks could be frustrating. We’re starting in Kano, but our vision goes far beyond Nigeria.”

Most of Nigeria’s fintech investment has gone to Lagos. Nod is building from Kano, starting with the needs of traders and small businesses in the North, and serving customers across Nigeria.

Nod plans to add cross-border payments so Nigerians with family and business ties abroad can send and receive money internationally. No launch date or markets have been announced yet. Nod is available now on the App Store and Google Play.

The launch of Nod marks a significant step for fintech innovation in Northern Nigeria. The app addresses real payment challenges faced by traders and businesses. Nod’s plans for cross-border payments signal its ambition to grow beyond Nigeria.