Gift cards have become one of the most convenient ways to receive value. Some get them and use them to shop, while others redeem gift cards as a way of making money from them.
These days, however, the process of redeeming a gift card can be a bit confusing, especially in Nigeria. This guide breaks it down into simple steps, so you know what to do.
What You Should Know Before Redeeming Your Gift Card
Before you attempt to redeem your gift card, there are important things you need to understand. These will help you avoid mistakes and make sure you get the full value of your card.
Know the Type of Gift Card You Have
Gift cards come in two categories:
- Closed-loop cards – Redeemable only with a specific brand (e.g., Apple, Amazon, Google Play, Steam, Sephora).
- Open-loop cards – Redeemable almost anywhere like cash (e.g., Visa, Mastercard gift cards), though these are less commonly used in Nigeria.
Understanding your card type determines where and how you can redeem it.
Region/ Country Restrictions
Many international gift cards are region-locked. For example:
- A US Apple gift card will not redeem on a Nigerian Apple ID.
- A UK Amazon gift card can only work on Amazon UK.
- A US Google Play card requires a Google Play account set to the United States.
Before redeeming, check:
- What country the card was issued in
- Whether your account matches that region
- If you may need to switch account country or use a VPN (with caution)
This prevents error messages like “This code is not valid in your region.”
Always Beware of Scams
Gift card fraud is common. To protect yourself, never share your gift card code with:
- Random traders on social media
- People offering “double reward” or “instant flip”
- Unverified websites or WhatsApp groups
Always use trusted, established platforms if you want to convert your gift card to Naira. Fortunately, Exchanger101 has your back and will always prioritize your safety.
Check the Card’s Balance and Validity
Some gift cards:
- Have expiration dates
- May have already been partially used
- Can be checked online via the brand’s official website
Always confirm the balance before redeeming.
How To Redeem Your Gift Card
Redeeming a gift card in Nigeria follows two main methods depending on your goal:. You can use it directly, or you can sell it for Naira.
Redeeming the Gift Card on the Brand’s Platform
If you want to use the gift card for apps, subscriptions, shopping, or purchases, then you could head to the issuer’s platform.
Most digital platforms have a “Redeem Code” section under your account or wallet. Simply enter your code and your balance will be updated.
Redeeming (Selling) Your Gift Card for Naira
If your goal is to convert the gift card to Nigerian currency rather than use it, then you need to choose a trusted platform like Exchanger101.
To trade on Exchanger101, all you have to do is:
- Sign into your Exchanger101 app and tap “Trade Gift Cards”
- Choose the card type – we have several gift cards available on the app
- View the rates, then tap “Proceed”
- Enter the value of the gift card you’d like to sell, then tap “Proceed”
- You’ll be taken to our trade page, powered by Intercom. Send us a message there – don’t worry; we reply in under a minute!
- Once you speak with our rep, we’ll be able to confirm your gift card details and process the trade to you in a flash!