The Federal Government has launched a new financial inclusion policy aimed at propelling Nigeria to become a one trillion-dollar economy by 2030. Vice President Kashim Shettima unveiled the initiative in Abuja, emphasizing its role in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to enhance economic and financial inclusion nationwide.
Known as the Aso Accord on Economic and Financial Inclusion, this policy is designed to combat poverty and stimulate sustainable economic growth from grassroots levels. Shettima highlighted its focus on providing access to capital and eradicating poverty through legislative measures and strategic policies. He noted the administration’s commitment to inclusive economic growth, which has already yielded positive outcomes such as Nigeria’s recent credit outlook upgrade by Fitch Ratings.
The Vice President stressed the strategic importance of economic and financial inclusion at the National Economic Council (NEC) level, urging stakeholders to collaborate effectively in implementing the policy. Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, the Technical Advisor to the President on Financial Inclusion, reported significant progress in operationalizing the Aso Accord and expanding financial access across Nigeria, supported by funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Overall, the initiative aims to empower over 30 million financially excluded Nigerians and foster sustainable economic development aligned with the nation’s long-term growth objectives.