The Federal government has inked the Aso Accord for Economic and Financial Inclusion with state governments and private sector stakeholders. Vice President Kashim Shettima, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, Wale Edun, and CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso were among the signatories, highlighting a concerted effort to extend affordable financial services to all, particularly the marginalized sectors.
Vice President Shettima emphasized the urgent need for a unified commitment from state governors and key economic players during the opening of the workshop. He reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to inclusive growth, emphasizing strategies like job creation, food security, poverty eradication, and improved capital accessibility as pivotal for national prosperity.
“This accord symbolizes a renewed and active commitment from all leaders in the economic and financial inclusion space, affirming our collective resolve to forge a more inclusive and prosperous future for every Nigerian,” VP Shettima stated.
Senator Hassan Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, highlighted expectations for stakeholders to address the growing gender gap in financial inclusion. This effort aims to integrate equality and accessibility into financial services, aligning with President Tinubu’s directive to ensure no one is left behind in adopting new strategies.
Emphasizing the workshop’s continuous nature, the 14th Emir of Kano and former CBN Governor, HRH Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, called for ongoing reviews of strategies to enhance financial literacy nationwide. He stressed the correlation between financial exclusion and societal challenges like insecurity and poverty.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State advocated for technological adoption to bolster digital environments for improved financial access, particularly in rural areas. His remarks showcased ongoing efforts in Ondo State, especially by the Entrepreneurship Agency, to expand financial services to small businesses and rural individuals.
Minister Wale Edun reiterated financial inclusion as a core element of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming for 100% financial inclusion under the Tinubu administration. He lauded stakeholder support and pledged ministry backing to achieve set targets.
Dr. Clement Buari, representing the CBN Governor, highlighted the bank’s efforts to accelerate financial inclusion, particularly in underserved communities. He emphasized the collaborative approach with stakeholders to uplift citizens economically.
The event also saw the presence of key government officials, including the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, and deputy governors from Borno and Kebbi states, along with heads of government agencies, showcasing broad support for enhanced financial inclusivity nationwide.
