In the cashless economy which Nigeria operates, having reliable payment alternatives is essential for the smooth running of businesses. Hence, business owners need to face the truth that POS systems may fail. And when they do, businesses may lose money because a network glitch halted card payments.

Customers are aware of this, which is why they may have other payment methods aside from their cards. They expect seamless service, which is why you need to offer multiple payment options. You can’t afford to be caught off guard when a card transaction fails. 

Below are four widely accepted alternatives every business owner should activate today;

1. USSD Codes: No Internet? No Problem.

USSD codes work on any phone. No smartphone or data is needed. When your POS is down, customers can simply dial a short code, input your account number, and transfer funds instantly.

Tip: Display your bank account details clearly at the counter. Ask or guide customers to use their bank’s USSD code. Include popular bank USSD codes near your checkout point.

Benefit

• It’s fast, even in low-network areas.
• It reduces reliance on fragile POS terminals.
• It’s traceable and safe.

2. Bank Transfers: Simple, Secure and Instant

Bank transfers via mobile apps are now popular. Many customers already prefer them. This is good for business as there’s no need for hardware or maintenance.

Tip: Create a poster with your account details. Consider adding a second phone number strictly for transfer alerts. Use customer-friendly terms like “bank transfer accepted here” in your poster.

Benefits

• Instant credit alerts
• Reduced downtime risks
• Fewer chargeback disputes

3. Mobile Wallets: Power Up with QR Payments

Customers have come to trust mobile wallets. They’re helpful for street vendors, salons, restaurants, and kiosks. Most offer QR payment options, which are smooth, fast, and reliable.

Tip: Register your business on one or more mobile wallet platforms. Print and display your QR code. Train your staff to recognise and confirm wallet payments quickly.

Benefits

• Faster checkout
• Easy to track sales
• Attractive incentives like cashback and lower fees

4. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL): Close the Sale Even on a Tight Budget

Sometimes, customers want to buy things like phones but don’t have full payment on hand. Other times, payment is hampered by POS system downtime. If your business is on BNPL platforms, you can offer flexible payment options at the point of sale.

Tip: Partner with a BNPL provider. Promote the option visibly in-store and on your social media pages or website using terms like “buy now, pay later available” to boost foot traffic.

Benefits

• Increases customer spending
• Reduces cart abandonment
• Offers payment flexibility during POS failure

Our Take

POS machine failure is not a matter of “if” but “when.” And when it happens, your preparedness determines whether you keep the sale or lose it.

Start positioning your business with visible, accessible, and tested cashless payment alternatives. Modern business is both about what you sell and how easily people can pay you. Make it effortless, every time.