Sterling Bank joins Thunes network for faster remittances

January 6, 2026

Thunes and Sterling Bank, one of Nigeria’s leading full-service commercial banks, have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at improving cross-border payments for Nigerians living abroad.

The partnership is designed to address the growing need among the Nigerian diaspora for faster, simpler and more reliable ways to send money home. With an estimated 17 million Nigerians living and working overseas, demand for transparent and dependable international payment options has become increasingly critical for everyday financial management and family support.

Under the agreement, Sterling Bank will leverage Thunes’ Direct Global Network to enable instant, seamless cross-border payments into Sterling Bank accounts. Thunes operates a global payments infrastructure that connects banks, mobile wallets and payment services across multiple markets, enabling real-time, transparent international transfers. Its network is designed to reduce friction, improve speed and enhance confidence in global money movement.

Sterling Bank is a Nigerian commercial bank offering a broad range of retail and corporate banking services. Through this collaboration, the bank is extending its digital and payments capabilities to better serve customers in the diaspora, particularly across European markets. New and existing Sterling Bank account holders will be able to fund their accounts more easily from foreign bank accounts, improving access and convenience.

The partnership also reflects broader trends in remittances and cross-border payments. Research released by Thunes found that 46% of diaspora consumers across Europe view sending money home as a regular and essential financial activity, on par with paying rent or utilities. By integrating with Thunes’ infrastructure, Sterling Bank aims to deliver a more consistent and dependable experience for these users.

Beyond payments efficiency, the collaboration aligns with both organisations’ focus on financial inclusion and community empowerment. The partnership supports improved financial oversight for individuals managing money across borders and contributes to Thunes’ wider ambition to onboard the next billion end users in emerging markets into the global economy.

Commenting on the partnership, Thunes SVP, Sales – Africa Daniel Parreira said, “Welcoming Sterling Bank to our Direct Global Network marks another significant milestone in our expansion across Africa, and the trust in our infrastructure across the continent. Together, we’re enabling a new level of convenience, speed, and confidence for customers managing finances across borders. This alliance demonstrates our ongoing dedication to making global money movement instant, transparent and accessible for all.”

Sterling Bank head, switch & remittances Ayodeji Saba said, “This partnership reflects Sterling Bank’s deep commitment to making it easier for Nigerians abroad to send money home. With Thunes’ trusted technology, we’re giving our customers a faster, more reliable, and more affordable way to fund their Sterling Bank accounts from their foreign bank accounts. It’s a major step forward in improving the experience for our diaspora community.”