The Central Bank of Nigeria has intensified its financial literacy campaign among young Nigerians, calling on students to adopt informed money management practices as a foundation for personal prosperity and national economic growth.
The charge was made during the 2026 Global Money Week celebration held in Abuja, themed “Smart Money Talks,” where senior officials of the apex bank emphasised the importance of early financial education.
Schools in attendance included Dove Land International School, Living Fountain International School, Government Day Secondary School, Wuse, and Government Science School, Maitama, alongside representatives from commercial banks.
Delivering a keynote address, the Director of Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion, Aisha Olatinwo, said the initiative reflects the CBN’s commitment to equipping young people with financial knowledge and decision-making skills.
She said financial literacy is essential in today’s economy, stressing that early exposure helps individuals build stronger financial habits and avoid costly mistakes.
“Financial literacy is no longer optional; it is essential,” she said.
Olatinwo explained that the theme encourages open conversations about money, noting that such discussions help correct misconceptions and build financial confidence among young people.
She also highlighted CBN initiatives such as the Bank Consumer Education Series and the Sabi Money e-learning platform, designed to improve financial awareness among students and the wider public.
According to her, the campaign will extend beyond schools into communities, markets, and households to promote a wider culture of financial responsibility.
“We will take this campaign to our mothers, our fathers, the markets, and even on the streets,” she said.
She advised students to view money as a tool for investment rather than just consumption, urging them to develop habits that support long-term financial stability.
“Look at money as an instrument for investment… that way, you build a rich future,” she added.
Earlier, the Head of Consumer Education and Evaluation Division, Amuwa Nelson, described Global Money Week as a global initiative focused on equipping young people with practical financial skills.
He said the fair provided an interactive platform for students to engage with financial institutions, learn about savings, and explore responsible spending habits.
Nelson urged participants to actively engage in the sessions and make use of available resources, adding that financial habits formed early in life shape future outcomes.
The Global Money Week campaign is a worldwide initiative that promotes financial education among young people, with participating countries hosting events to strengthen financial awareness and inclusion.
The 2026 edition in Nigeria forms part of broader efforts by the CBN to deepen financial literacy, strengthen consumer protection, and support long-term economic stability.