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In recent months, discussions around core banking applications have surged in Nigeria, sparked by major banks transitioning to new platforms. These migrations underscore the critical role core banking systems play in enabling financial institutions to deliver efficient and scalable services. Among the leading providers in this space, Oradian has emerged as a game-changer, championing financial inclusion across emerging markets.
Empowering Financial Institutions Since 2013
Founded in 2013 with its first customer in Bauchi State, Nigeria, Oradian is a cloud-native core banking solutionprovider dedicated to helping financial institutions overcome barriers to growth. Focused on markets like Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines, Oradian’s mission is clear: to empower institutions to scale operations and deliver financial services to underserved communities.
At a media parley in Lagos on November 28, Antonio Separovic, CEO and co-founder of Oradian, emphasized the company’s vision:
“Our goal is to create financial inclusion that strengthens economies in a manner that is both profitable and built on a solid foundation.”
This foundation is what Oradian delivers to its partners, including FairMoney, ensuring seamless operations and interoperability while supporting their core mission.
A Flexible Platform for Dynamic Markets
Oradian’s configurable, cloud-based platform is designed to meet the diverse needs of financial institutions operating in complex, fast-evolving markets. By leveraging a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model, Oradian offers a scalable, single-codebase solution capable of handling millions of customers and hundreds of millions of transactions.
This flexibility enables fintechs and microfinance banks to integrate seamlessly with other financial institutions, fostering the partnerships that define today’s financial ecosystem. Antonio Separovic explained:
“Our single-source code system allows clients like FairMoney to continuously push the platform’s boundaries, driving innovation and efficiency.”
Insights from Industry Leaders
During the event, discussions highlighted the differences between traditional banks and fintechs in adopting innovative technologies. While fintechs thrive on integration and outsourcing, traditional banks often prefer to own and manage all operations internally—a reflection of their intricate legacy systems.
Adewale Salami, Group CIO of First Bank PLC, noted:
“Banks’ legacy systems make them less flexible, which is why they tend to own everything, unlike fintechs that prioritize speed and partnerships.”
In contrast, Kamal Boushi, CEO of Renmoney, expressed support for outsourcing non-core services to focus on delivering value to customers. Other panelists, including Pius Emeya, Head of IT at Access Bank PLC; Kazeem Noibi, VP of Technology at FairMoney; and Victor Asemota, a serial entrepreneur and investor, echoed the need for flexibility and adaptability in the evolving financial ecosystem.
Looking Ahead: Expansion to Commercial Banking
While Oradian’s current focus is on microfinance banks and fintechs, it has plans to expand its services to commercial banks in the future. However, the platform’s inherent agility and adaptability make it particularly well-suited for fintechs today.
As Separovic remarked:
“Banks and fintechs have fundamentally different approaches. Fintechs prioritize speed and integration, while banks’ intricate systems demand ownership and control.”
Driving Financial Inclusion Forward
Oradian’s commitment to financial inclusion extends beyond technology; it’s about fostering collaboration, enabling scalability, and driving sustainable growth. With its focus on flexibility and innovation, Oradian is not just keeping pace with the evolution of the financial sector—it is helping shape its future.
As financial institutions continue to navigate the challenges of digital transformation, Oradian stands as a vital partner, empowering them to serve the unbanked and underbanked populations across emerging markets.
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