The Nigerian federal government, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, has signed the Aso Accord with state governments and private sector stakeholders. The agreement aims to deliver affordable and accessible financial services to all Nigerians, with a particular focus on underserved and disadvantaged populations.
Key figures endorsing the Accord include Vice President Shettima, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Yemi Cardoso, Nigeria Governors Forum Chairman Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and Sterling Bank PLC Managing Director/CEO Abubakar Suleiman.
During the two-day Economic and Financial Inclusion workshop, Vice President Shettima called for a renewed commitment to inclusion, stating, “I am proud to announce… the signing of the Aso Accord for Economic and Financial Inclusion. This accord… affirms our collective resolve to forge a more inclusive and prosperous future for every Nigerian.”
Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Hassan Hadejia, emphasised the President’s directive to address the gender gap in financial inclusion and ensure inclusive strategies.
The 14th Emir of Kano and former CBN Governor, HRH Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, stressed the need for continuous review of financial inclusion strategies and the importance of integrating financial education into school curriculums. He underscored the link between financial exclusion and the country’s rising insecurity and poverty levels.
The workshop showcased the federal government’s commitment to collaboration in achieving financial inclusion goals. Minister of Finance Edun highlighted the integral role of financial inclusion in President Tinubu’s economic agenda and pledged support.
CBN Director of Strategy Management, Dr. Clement Buari, emphasised the institution’s ongoing efforts and the need for collaboration in reaching underserved communities.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State shared his state’s initiatives to leverage technology for financial inclusion in rural areas, particularly through the state Entrepreneurship Agency’s work with small businesses.
The Aso Accord marks a significant step forward for Nigeria, signaling a unified approach to achieving its financial inclusion goals. The combination of federal, state, and private sector commitment, along with a focus on reaching marginalized populations, holds great promise for expanding economic opportunities for all Nigerians.
