Sokoto, Nigeria – May 29, 2025
The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has reiterated its commitment to fostering financial literacy and a robust savings culture among young Nigerians, with a special focus on secondary school students in Sokoto State.
This assurance was given on Thursday by the NDIC Zonal Controller in Sokoto, Mr. Bello Usman-Kaoje, during a financial education outreach held at Government Day Secondary School, Kalambaina. The event brought together students from various schools across the state as part of a broader initiative to empower youths with essential financial knowledge.
Usman-Kaoje explained that the programme forms part of the NDIC’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, aimed at instilling sound money management practices, prudent spending habits, and long-term financial planning in the younger generation.
“This programme is organised in commemoration of the 2025 Financial Literacy Day, with the theme: ‘Think Before You Follow – Spend Money Wisely Tomorrow’,” he said.
He added that the NDIC has been consistent in its efforts to mentor students on the importance of saving, budgeting, and investment, with the goal of preparing them for responsible financial decision-making and, ultimately, contributing to national economic growth.
In his remarks, Usman-Kaoje also raised concerns about the growing threat of financial fraud, particularly scams conducted through online platforms and Point-of-Sale (POS) operators. He urged students to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to deceitful schemes that promise quick profits.
Joining the discussion, Mr. Abubakar Usman of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sokoto Branch, underscored the role of regulated financial institutions in safeguarding deposits and ensuring secure financial transactions. He highlighted the importance of financial inclusion and consumer protection in Nigeria’s evolving banking landscape.
In a related presentation, Aliyu Omama, Deputy Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sokoto State Command, addressed the intersection of drug abuse and financial recklessness. He warned students about the social and economic dangers associated with substance abuse.
Representing the school principals, Hajiya Mansura Abdulsalam praised the initiative as both timely and impactful. She encouraged students to apply the knowledge gained and embrace sound financial habits early in life.
The one-day event featured lectures, interactive sessions, and discussions covering topics such as financial planning, fraud awareness, savings strategies, and the long-term benefits of disciplined spending.