By Raliat Adenekan 

The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched a free nationwide training program to equip 10 million Nigerians with essential financial skills, investment knowledge, and digital competencies. 

Vice President Kashim Shettima who flagged off the initiative on Monday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, emphasized that Nigeria’s demographic dividend can only be harnessed by prioritizing youth and women empowerment.

The training program which is in partnership with six professional bodies, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) and other professional bodies, undertaken by the Office of the Vice President through the Presidential Committee on Economic & Financial Inclusion (PreCEFI), aims to strengthen Nigeria’s financial and enterprise workforce.

The initiative has received support from key stakeholders, including the President of ICAN, Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, and Dr Pius Oluwapo, President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), who praised the administration’s bold economic reforms, while assuring of the readiness of the bodies to bring forth viable, financially empowered citizens. 

The training program is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s economy, with the potential to drive financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. The program’s focus on digital transformation and professional standards aligns with national inclusion goals.