Wema Bank has rolled out an enhanced version of its digital platform, ALAT, which now includes a voice-activated banking capability. The latest iteration, branded as “ALAT: The Evolution,” was made available on January 12, 2026, and introduces several new features.
Among the key innovations is the integration of an AI-driven virtual assistant, named “SAW,” which enables users to conduct banking transactions simply by speaking. According to the bank, this feature supports the full completion of transactions without the need for manual input.
The virtual assistant is designed with gender customization options and employs voice recognition technology that adapts to individual users' speech patterns. To ensure security, an additional passcode verification step has been incorporated into the process.
Moruf Oseni, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Wema Bank, highlighted that the development of the voice banking feature was driven by the bank's commitment to improving efficiency, reliability, and convenience in the digital banking space.
Oseni explained that the feature is intended to assist customers in executing transactions swiftly, without causing disruptions to their daily routines.
He further noted that the revamped ALAT platform combines artificial intelligence with robust security measures, aiming to optimize banking services for both Nigerian and international users.
Oseni stated: “When we launched ALAT in 2017, the goal for us was to provide a banking solution that would be ahead of its time, something that would optimise banking for Nigerians across the world and be accessible 24/7, outside the spheres of traditional banking. ALAT, no doubt has ticked all the boxes since its launch, and the upgraded version goes even further. The Wema way is innovative and ever evolving.
“We saw the world evolve, understood where it was headed and leveraged emerging technologies to give ALAT a futuristic upgrade; hence the launch of what we have tagged ‘ALAT: The Evolution’, a game changer in the industry.
“In today’s AI-driven world, the new ALAT incorporates artificial intelligence with enhanced security, creating a holistic solution built with groundbreaking features that extend beyond banking.
“It goes beyond just implementing an AI Virtual Assistant, it is supporting the fast-paced lifestyles of our customers without interrupting their busy schedules. A student caught up in work does not need to transfer focus to their banking app to make a quick transfer.
“A simple voice command cuts down a process that would have taken a whole minute to a matter of seconds. Every detail is strategic, ensuring that your virtual assistant is programmed to your voice and regular voice patterns.
“This is the future of banking, and this is what Wema Bank has delivered with the new and upgraded ALAT”, Oseni concluded.
Alongside the voice banking feature, the updated application also introduces “Tap & Pay,” a contactless payment method for secure transactions between ALAT users in close proximity. Additionally, the “Uptime Prediction” feature informs users about the service availability status of recipient banks before transaction processing commences.
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