Nigeria’s Federal Government has launched a USSD-based credit service, SPARK, aimed at helping people apply for loans using basic mobile phones without internet access. The service is intended to support loan applications and enable users to build formal credit histories.
Both outlets describe SPARK as a way for Nigerians—especially those without smartphones—to access credit through simple USSD interactions. Vanguard emphasises the practical “how to apply” aspect and frames the launch as a broader effort to expand access while strengthening financial inclusion. Legit.ng focuses on the specific barrier the service addresses—requiring neither a smartphone nor internet—and highlights its role in helping first-time borrowers establish formal credit records.
Across the reports, SPARK is presented as a credit pathway delivered through USSD, with CREDICORP named as the operator in Legit.ng’s coverage, while Vanguard foregrounds government launch details and application guidance.
