Sending money to loved ones in Nigeria is now more flexible than before. Remitly has introduced a payout option that allows you to send USDC—a type of digital currency known as a stablecoin—directly to a recipient’s crypto wallet.
Cryptocurrency is widely used in Nigeria for remittances, savings, and as a tool to manage currency fluctuations. This new option is designed to offer a secure and straightforward way for your family and friends to access digital dollars.
This guide will walk you through the benefits of using stablecoin and the simple steps to send your first USDC transfer with Remitly.
Why Stablecoin Matter in Nigeria
The Nigerian naira (NGN) has experienced volatility in recent years, making it challenging for people to protect their savings and maintain purchasing power. Digital dollars like USDC can help by providing a way to hold value in a currency that is designed to remain stable.
USDC is a stablecoin designed to maintain a 1:1 value with the U.S. dollar. By receiving funds in USDC, your recipient can choose to hold a more predictable digital asset and convert to local currency when it makes sense for them. Nigeria is also one of the countries where cryptocurrency use is common, and many people are already familiar with digital wallets and assets.
Note: USDC is issued by Circle, a regulated financial institution. It is designed to maintain a stable value but may vary under certain market conditions. You can learn more by reviewing Circle’s USDC Terms.
What You Need to Get Started
Before sending your first transfer, make sure you and your recipient have what you need.
For the Sender (in the U.S.)
- An active Remitly account
- The updated Remitly mobile app
- A stable internet connection
For the Recipient (in Nigeria)
- A crypto wallet that supports USDC on a compatible blockchain network
- Their correct crypto wallet address
Wallet providers such as Yellow Card, Trust Wallet, or Bundle Africa are common options*. Your recipient can check their wallet app to confirm the supported network and wallet address.
*These platforms are third‑party services not affiliated with Remitly. Recipients should choose a wallet provider based on their own preferences.
Because crypto transfers are irreversible, it’s important that the wallet address is entered accurately. A wrong address may result in a permanent loss of funds.
How to Send USDC to Nigeria with Remitly
Sending digital dollars through Remitly is designed to be simple. Follow these steps:
- Start a Transfer: Open the Remitly app and select Nigeria as the destination country.
- Choose Delivery Method: Select Crypto wallet as your delivery option.
- Enter Wallet Details: Enter your recipient’s crypto wallet address and select their blockchain network (such as Polygon or Stellar).
- Confirm Transfer Details: Review the transfer fee and the amount of USDC that will be delivered. You’ll see a 1:1 exchange rate—every U.S. dollar you send is delivered as one USDC.
- Complete the Transfer: Powered by our stablecoin partner. Confirm the details and finalize the transfer.
Once sent, the funds are delivered to the recipient’s crypto wallet—often within minutes depending on network conditions.
Benefits for Your Recipient
Sending USDC to Nigeria offers meaningful advantages:
Fast Access to Digital Dollars
Transfers settle quickly, giving recipients timely access to funds.
Protection from Naira Devaluation
Recipients can hold USDC instead of immediately converting to NGN, helping preserve value during periods of inflation.
Flexibility and Control
Recipients can convert USDC to naira, use it for purchases, or keep it as savings—depending on their needs.
Transparent, Flat Fees
Remitly offers clear pricing with flat fees and no exchange‑rate markup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How is this different from sending to a bank account?
Traditional bank transfers convert funds directly into naira. With crypto wallet delivery, funds are delivered as USDC, allowing recipients to decide when or if they want to convert to NGN.
What if my recipient wants to cash out to naira?
Recipients can usually convert USDC to naira through their crypto wallet or a local exchange. Many Nigerian platforms—such as Yellow Card or Bundle Africa*—allow users to sell USDC and withdraw funds to a local bank account.
*Remitly is not affiliated with these third‑party platforms.
Is using USDC safe?
USDC is a widely used stablecoin issued by a regulated financial institution and designed to maintain a stable value. However, as with any digital asset, there are risks. Remitly screens each transfer in line with compliance standards, and stablecoin transactions are irreversible once delivered.
Important: Remitly does not hold funds once they are delivered to the recipient’s crypto wallet. Stablecoin transfers are not cancellable and may carry financial risk.
Get Started with Digital Dollars Today
Sending stablecoin with Remitly is a powerful way to support your loved ones in Nigeria. It offers stability, control, and flexibility—all within a simple experience inside the Remitly app.
You don’t need to be a crypto expert to get started. Just update your app, select the Crypto wallet delivery option, and send USDC in minutes.