The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has urged secondary school students across the country to take financial education seriously, describing it as a vital life skill in today’s fast-changing economic environment.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday during Global Money Week 2026, the Director of Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion Department, Mrs. Aisha Isa Olatinwo, stressed the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge needed to make sound financial decisions early in life.
She noted that in a rapidly evolving financial landscape, financial literacy is no longer optional but a necessity. According to her, the ability to make informed financial choices not only benefits individuals but also strengthens families and contributes to national economic growth.
Olatinwo encouraged students to engage in open conversations about money, explaining that such discussions help to correct misconceptions, build confidence, and prepare individuals for a more secure financial future.
She also revealed that the apex bank has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving financial knowledge among Nigerians, particularly the youth. These include the Bank Consumer Education Series and the “Sabi Money” e-learning platform, both designed to provide practical financial knowledge and encourage peer-to-peer learning.
She added that activities lined up for this year’s Global Money Week are focused on promoting responsible financial behaviour among young people, with the goal of fostering a culture of financial discipline.
Beyond students, she explained that the campaign will extend to other segments of society, including parents, traders, and community members, as part of efforts to deepen financial inclusion nationwide.
Olatinwo further advised participants to adopt a new mindset towards money, urging them to view it as a tool for investment rather than mere spending. She emphasized that investing wisely and spending from returns is a more sustainable path to building long-term financial stability.
