In a bid to revolutionize financial literacy and engagement, digital bank Bankit Africa has integrated gamification into its services, enabling customers to earn rewards while managing their finances.
Bankit Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Yen Choi, revealed the strategy in a statement on Monday, emphasizing how gamification can transform banking from a routine activity into an engaging and rewarding experience.
“Game dynamics are what make games addictive. They keep players engaged, excited, and motivated. At Bankit Africa, we are applying similar principles—leaderboards, usage streaks, high scores, and rewards—to financial management, making banking feel more interactive and enjoyable,” Choi explained.
Making Financial Management Fun
With traditional banking often seen as mundane, Bankit Africa’s approach introduces a “financial playground” where users develop better money habits through interactive features. The neobank is leveraging gamification elements such as ‘Goal Unlock Savings’, which encourages users to save by unlocking exclusive features only after consistent engagement.
“For example, users who regularly deposit money, pay their bills on time, and complete financial literacy challenges gain access to an automated savings feature. This tool allocates a portion of every transaction towards a set goal—be it rent, a new phone, or a car. Because access is earned through responsible financial behaviour, users are more invested in saving,” Choi stated.
The neobank also integrates bite-sized financial literacy challenges and daily ‘money missions’, ensuring that users not only understand financial concepts but actively apply them.
“Many people, especially younger generations, avoid financial education because it seems complicated or uninteresting. By incorporating game-like elements, we make learning about money more interactive, fostering better financial decisions,” Choi added.
Real-World Benefits for Users
Beyond in-app engagement, Bankit Africa is offering tangible incentives for users who adopt positive financial habits. Customers who demonstrate strong savings discipline can benefit from higher interest rates, discounted fees, and access to premium financial planning tools.
“We are building a loyalty ecosystem where users can redeem points for financial products or partner discounts, further reinforcing smart money management,” Choi confirmed.
Gamification’s Role in Banking Innovation
The adoption of gamification in financial services is gaining momentum globally, with many fintech firms recognizing its potential in bridging the financial literacy gap. By integrating mechanics commonly found in mobile games, Bankit Africa is positioning itself as a pioneer in interactive banking, setting a precedent for digital-first financial institutions in Nigeria and beyond.
As the digital banking space continues to evolve, industry experts believe that innovative approaches like gamification could significantly boost financial inclusion and literacy, particularly among younger demographics who are more inclined toward digital experiences.
With this initiative, Bankit Africa is not only reimagining financial services but also proving that managing money can be both rewarding and fun.
