CBN: Financial literacy now essential life skill for Nigerian students
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has called on Nigerian secondary school students to take financial education seriously, saying that understanding how money works is now a basic life skill
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has called on Nigerian secondary school students to take financial education seriously, saying that understanding how money works is now a basic life skill in a fast-changing economy.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during the Global Money Week 2026, the Director of Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion Department at the apex bank Mrs Aisha Isa Olatinwo said young people must learn how to make wise financial decisions early in life.
According to her, “In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, financial literacy is no longer optional; it is essential.”
She added that the ability to make informed financial choices is important not just for individuals, but also for families and the country’s economic progress.
“The ability to make informed financial choices is a critical life skill that not only empowers individuals and strengthens families but also supports national economic growth,” she said.
She encouraged students to speak openly about money matters, explaining that such discussions help to clear wrong ideas and build confidence. “When we talk about money, we break down misconceptions, we build confidence, and we equip ourselves for a more secure financial future,” she noted.
The director also disclosed that the CBN has introduced several initiatives to improve public understanding of financial management.
She explained that programmes such as the Bank Consumer Education Series and the “Sabi Money” e-learning platform are designed to help Nigerians, especially young people, gain practical knowledge about money and even teach others.
She said activities planned for this year’s Global Money Week are aimed at encouraging responsible financial behaviour among youths. “Through various activities lined up for this year's Global Money Week celebration, we hope to inspire a culture of financial responsibility, especially among younger people like you,” she stated.
She further explained that the campaign would not be limited to students alone but would extend to different segments of society.
According to her, efforts are underway to take financial education to parents, traders and people in communities across the country.
She advised participants to change their mindset about money, urging them to see it as a tool for investment rather than just spending. “Let’s not see money as an instrument to spend. Look at money as an instrument for investment, and the yield from that investment, you can spend. That way, you build a rich future,” she said.
Earlier, the Head of Consumer Education and Evaluation Division at the CBN, Mr. Amuwa Nelson, explained that Global Money Week is an international programme focused on equipping young people with the knowledge and confidence to make responsible financial decisions.
He said this year’s financial literacy fair is structured to give participants practical experience in managing money, saving, and spending wisely, while also exposing them to various financial opportunities available to them.
Speaking on the theme of the 2026 edition, “Smart Money Talks,” Nelson said it encourages open discussions about money as a way of improving financial understanding. According to him, asking questions, sharing ideas and learning from others are key steps toward making better financial decisions and building a secure future.
He added that participants at the event would have the chance to engage directly with financial institutions, explore products designed for young people and gain useful insights that would guide their financial decisions now and in the future.
