In celebration of World Savings Day 2024, 9 Payment Service Bank (9PSB), a prominent digital payment service provider dedicated to advancing financial inclusion in Nigeria, hosted a financial literacy and mentorship program for students at Fountain Heights Secondary School in Surulere, Lagos. This initiative aligns with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) mandate for financial institutions to foster financial literacy among students, youth, and the general public, aiming to build a culture of financial discipline, saving, and sound money management across Nigeria.
Tolani Jemi-Alade, Chief of Business Planning, Operations, and Resources at 9PSB, addressed the students, emphasizing the value of developing smart financial habits, especially in times of economic uncertainty. She encouraged the students to become part of the formal financial system early on, noting, “We encourage every young person with a regular income to open a bank account as a first step toward financial independence and future savings. Money is essential for daily needs and to manage unexpected situations. Starting early is important as these needs are inevitable.”
Highlighting the relevance of World Savings Day, championed by CBN, Tolani explained that the initiative aims to spread awareness about financial literacy, particularly among students, and to foster a culture of saving. She underscored the benefits of understanding and using formal financial services for long-term financial well-being.
Oladimeji Saka, Lead for Retail Banking and Customer Acquisition at 9PSB, reiterated these points, underscoring that financial literacy should start at a young age. He also encouraged parents to guide their children as they grow, helping them develop the necessary financial knowledge to manage their finances responsibly.
Representing Fountain Heights Secondary School, Mr. Romanus Emegwakor, Vice Principal Academics, expressed gratitude to 9PSB for their commitment to equipping students with essential financial knowledge. “We are extremely appreciative of 9PSB for this invaluable financial literacy programme. It is crucial for our students to understand the significance of financial discipline, and we believe this initiative will help them develop the skills needed to make informed financial decisions in the future,” he said.
World Savings Day is an annual global initiative focused on educating young people on the importance of prudent financial planning and saving through formal banking systems, promoting financial awareness across generations.
ABOUT 9 PAYMENT SERVICE BANK
9 Payment Service Bank (9PSB) is a registered Nigerian bank approved by the CBN to provide tailored banking services to the underbanked and unbanked, as well as innovative offerings to account holders. Operating as a fully digital bank with a nationwide agency network, 9PSB offers accessible, seamless online and offline banking experiences for all. For more information, visit www.9psb.com.ng.