Bridging Financial Inclusion Gaps Key To $1trn Economy Vision – VP Shettima

*** Urges stakeholders to tackle inequalities, foster inclusive financial system

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has implored development partners and other stakeholders to bridge systemic inequalities and foster an inclusive, unbiased financial system that benefits all Nigerians irrespective of gender or geography.

In this regard, he identified some unsettling gaps yawning for serious attention, including low penetration of digital financial services among women, just as he listed some socio-economic barriers behind these inequalities including low incomes, limited education, and restricted access to financial tools like credit and insurance.

The Vice President gave the charge on Wednesday during the inaugural Development Partners Roundtable on Economic and Financial Inclusion at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

VP Shettima who was represented by Special Adviser to the President on General Duties (Office of the Vice President), Aliyu Modibbo Umar, warned that Nigeria’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030 will remain an illusion except the private sector and development partners are fully engaged.

He stated: “We have come this far because we are continually assessing the extent of economic and financial inclusion in Nigeria. However, the results of this assessment reveal some disturbing gaps that demand our urgent attention. One such gaps is the low penetration of digital financial services among women—only 23% compared to 43% for men.

“This, as we have learned, is driven by socio-economic barriers such as low income, limited education, and restricted access to financial tools like credit and insurance. Women in the northwest and northeast are particularly disadvantaged. The task before us, then, is clear: to bridge these systemic inequalities and foster an inclusive, equitable financial system that benefits all Nigerians, regardless of gender or geography.”

Senator Shettima however expressed optimism that the inaugural roundtable will provide a fertile ground for meaningful conversation that would “pave the way for a future where every Nigerian is a significant part of the nation’s financial data.”

He continued: “This roundtable is yet another important opportunity to harness our collective potential and chart a sustainable path forward. It is designed to provide a holistic view of the obstacles impeding economic and financial inclusion in Nigeria.

“As we engage in discussions today, I invite all of us to join hands, collaborate, and align our efforts in crafting lasting solutions. Whatever we do as a government, we know it cannot materialise fully unless we work together with you—our development partners, the private sector, and all stakeholders committed to progress.”

The VP hinted at the inauguration of a Presidential Committee for the Implementation of the Aso Accord, saying it will guarantee the success of the initiative championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, to guarantee the success of the transformative initiatives championed by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I am pleased to announce the inauguration of a Presidential Committee for the Implementation of the Aso Accord.

“It is my honour to chair this Governance Committee, which will primarily consist of the esteemed signatories to the Aso Accord, reflecting our collective commitment to ensuring its success. The Committee will be backed by a dedicated secretariat housed within the Office of the Vice President,” he noted.

Noting that discussions on the state of economic and financial inclusion in Nigeria had become a matter of priority at the National Economic Council (NEC) since April of this year, VP Shettima said, “The committee will report to the NEC on a quarterly basis to ensure that the integrated framework we have established not only implements the Aso Accord effectively but also achieves its ambitious goals.

“Once again, I call on all development partners here today to collaborate with this team to ensure the successful implementation of the Aso Accord. Your support is critical to this mission. We will rely on your technical expertise and continued assistance in accelerating the implementation of specific programmes and initiatives. None of us can deliver on this task in isolation,” he added.

Earlier, the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Mr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who spoke on behalf of the subnationals, commended President Tinubu for giving Nigeria visionary leadership.

He said the successes being recorded by the nation in the economic and other sectors show that Nigeria is on the right track.

The Deputy Governor who represented the Bayelsa State Governor maintained that rural communities should be well accommodated in the scheme of things to enhance inclusive development.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, called for effective strategies to include more farmers, petty traders and others who are in poor financial stages, in the financial inclusion programme in order to achieve its goals.

Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Yusuf Sununu, who said the ministry plays a big role in providing financial intervention and inclusion, added that the ministry will ensure social justice, environmental protection and growth through its social intervention programmes like Conditional Cash Transfer and School Feeding.

He assured beneficiaries of accountability and transparency in the implementation of all the programmes of the ministry.

On his part, Technical Adviser to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Dr Nurudeen Zauro, said the roundtable was a defining moment for the financial inclusion strategy of the Nigerian government.

“Today’s gathering is a defining moment in our collective journey towards creating a more equitable, inclusive and prosperous Nigeria. In this hall, we have stakeholders comprising individuals and institutions who are united by a shared commitment to transforming lives through inclusive, economic and financial systems in Nigeria,” he said.

Dr Zauro added that the Aso Accord that seeks to promote financial inclusion is also a blueprint for action guided by the drive to unlock full potential and enhance socio-economic growth, leading to the building of a resilient and inclusive future for all Nigerians.

On her part, the Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Monique Nsanzabaganwa, hailed Nigeria’s reforms, which she said are feasible.

She congratulated Nigeria for implementing the Aso Accord on Financial Inclusion, just as she solicited more support for women and MSMEs.

Bridging Financial Inclusion Gaps Key To $1trn Economy Vision – VP Shettima

Zuwaira Gambo Commemorates Youth-Led Football Tournament Advocating Peace

… FC Yazuzu wins Borno Model Competition with a 3-0 victory

By: Our Reporter

The Hon. Commissioner for the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Borno State, Hajjia Zuwaira Gambo, graced the grand finale of a youth-driven football tournament designed to promote peace and unity in the region. The event, a flagship of the Borno Model initiative, featured teams comprising repented insurgents and local youth, showcasing sports as a powerful tool for reconciliation and community building.

The final match saw FC YaZuzu, representing Hon. Zuwaira Gambo, clinch an emphatic 3-0 victory over FC Gen. Abdullahi Ishaq, which represented the Senior Special Adviser on Security to the Governor. The spirited competition and resounding cheers from spectators highlighted the community’s commitment to fostering harmony and rebuilding trust.

After presenting the championship trophy to FC YaZuzu, Hon. Gambo lauded the youth for their initiative and vision. She remarked, “This tournament transcends football; it symbolizes hope, unity, and a brighter future led by the youth of Borno. Your efforts are a testament to the resilience and potential within our communities.”

She extended gratitude to Gen. Abdullahi Ishaq for his pivotal support and emphasized how the event aligns with Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s vision for youth empowerment and sustainable social development.

The celebrations that followed the trophy presentation underscored the triumph of collective action and served as a poignant reminder of the transformative impact of youth-led initiatives in building a peaceful and unified Borno.

Zuwaira Gambo Commemorates Youth-Led Football Tournament Advocating Peace

AS 2024 AFRICAN MILITARY GAMES CLOSE: President Tinubu Vows To Root Out Insecurity In Nigeria, Stabilise ECOWAS

*** Says camaraderie spirit crucial to enhance cooperation among militaries across Africa

By: Our Reporter

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has again restated his administration’s unflinching determination to root out all forms of security threats and violent crimes in Nigeria.

He also reiterated his resolve to stabilise the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and contribute immensely to peace in Africa in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.

The President made the vow on Saturday during a colourful ceremony to mark the closing of the African Military Games 2024 in Abuja.

President Tinubu who was represented at the event by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that he intends to accomplish all these by strengthening ties across African countries to promote a profound sense of camaraderie among troops on the continent.

He declared: “Let me use this opportunity to declare the resolve and unflinching commitment of my administration to rid the nation of security threats and violent crimes. Moreover, as the ECOWAS Chairman, I want to emphasize my determination to stabilize the sub-region and indeed the entire African continent to ensure its prosperity.

“To accomplish this vision, I consider strengthening ties across African countries to foster a deep sense of camaraderie among our troops as a priority.”

The President observed that the 2nd edition of the Africa Military Games could not have come at a better time, two decades after the last edition was held, noting that it is “in the spirit of boosting this collaborative framework for combating the rising spate of insecurity across the continent.”

He expressed firm belief that the military sports event will go a long way in awakening “the spirit of comradeship and friendship that is crucial to enhance cooperation among” militaries across the African continent.

Underscoring the significance of the event, President Tinubu pointed out that “Armed Forces constantly require fit personnel thereby underscoring the need for military personnel to always engage in sporting activities.

“As such, it is common knowledge that men and women of our Armed Forces must keep fit to ensure optimal physical, mental and emotional well-being to cope with the dynamics of our rapidly evolving volatile, uncertain and complex environment,” he added.

The Nigerian leader further applauded the vision of Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the President of OSMA, Major General M Abdullahi, for recording yet another feat with this milestone achievement.”

Declaring the Africa Military Games Abuja 2024 closed, President Tinubu congratulated delegates from participating countries across Africa for their good conduct and display of the spirit of sportsmanship.

“Given the professionalism you all displayed from the start to finish of this Games, you gentlemen and ladies are indeed not only military personnel but also great sportsmen and women. I am aware that the various games were conducted without any obvious hitches. This is indeed an achievement which we all as Africans ought to be proud of,” he stated.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, while commending participants at the Africa Military Games, Abuja said it “was with immense pride and gratitude and on behalf of the Nigerian Armed Forces that we celebrate what has been truly inspiring and a unifying event.”

Congratulating the teams that took part in the competition, Gen. Musa noted that “while awards and trophies represent the pinnacle of achievement, irrespective of the ranking and position, everyone is a winner.”

He said that the courage, skills and sportsmanship exhibited in the field, tracks and courts have been inspiring, proving that victory is not just about crossing the finish line first but about embodying the values of unity and resilience.

“Over the past several days, the national stadium in Abuja has been the hub of canvassing for excellence and sportsmanship under the theme of enhancing military cooperation in Africa through sports,” General Musa stated.

He said, “We have noticed how sport can bridge boundaries, foster friendship and strengthen bonds among the armed forces of Africa.”

Also in his farewell address, the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Maj. Gen. Maikano Abdullahi also noted that it was a pride and honour to congratulate the armed forces sportsmen and women as the event ended.

He extended appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed
Forces, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike and a host of others who made the event a success.

He said the wonderful achievements and milestones in sports underscore the cooperation and unity among the military armed forces in Africa.

General Abdullahi noted that the game is not only a platform for competition but also a celebration of shared value and unity, saying, “We have seen athletes from different countries, transcending borders and differences but unite for a common purpose to honour our nation and ideals that we stand for in the African armed forces.”

According to him, the teams have represented their different countries with pride signifying the testimonies of hard work, discipline, team spirit and cooperation, adding that this will resonate far beyond the Abuja game events.

Team Nigeria emerged the overall winner of the AMGA- 2024 with 114 gold medals, 65 silver and 55 bronze totalling 234 medals while Algeria took 2nd position with a total of 96 medals and Kenya 3rd position with 50 medals.

AS 2024 AFRICAN MILITARY GAMES CLOSE: President Tinubu Vows To Root Out Insecurity In Nigeria, Stabilise ECOWAS