In a concerted effort to enhance economic and financial inclusion across Nigeria, the Federal Government, state representatives, and the organized private sector have inked a pivotal accord. This agreement underscores a collective resolve to ensure the accessibility of financial services to all Nigerians, particularly those in disadvantaged and low-income sectors of society.
The accord, dubbed the Aso Accord for Economic and Financial Inclusion, was signed during a workshop convened by the Office of the Technical Advisor to the President on Financial Inclusion, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. Notable signatories included Vice President Kashim Shettima, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Yemi Cardoso, representing the Federal Government. State representation came through Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, while the private sector was represented by Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, the Managing Director/CEO of Sterling Bank Plc.
Vice President Shettima emphasized the imperative of forging a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Nigerians, stressing the significance of initiatives aimed at job creation, food security, poverty eradication, and access to capital. He underscored the pivotal role played by all stakeholders in championing the cause of economic and financial inclusion, heralding the signing of the accord as a renewed commitment towards this noble objective.
In alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for inclusive economic growth, the accord aims to integrate equality and accessibility of financial services, leaving no Nigerian behind. Senator Hassan Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, urged stakeholders to adopt new strategies and models to ensure the realization of set targets.
Former CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi highlighted the imperative of integrating financial literacy into Nigeria’s educational curriculum, citing a direct correlation between financial exclusion and societal vices such as insecurity and poverty levels.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State outlined efforts undertaken by his administration to bolster financial inclusion, particularly in rural areas, through initiatives spearheaded by the state Entrepreneurship Agency.
Minister of Finance Wale Edun commended stakeholders’ support and the critical role played by the CBN in accelerating financial inclusion. Dr. Clement Buari, representing the CBN Governor, reaffirmed the regulator’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to expand financial access, particularly in underserved communities.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Women Affairs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, and representatives from various government agencies.