The Federal Government has introduced a new initiative to create an operating model and framework for Economic and Financial Inclusion.
This initiative aims to transform Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy by 2030, focusing on combating poverty and fostering sustainable economic growth from the grassroots level.
Vice President Kashim Shettima stated that the new initiative reflects the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s dedication to improving financial and economic inclusion nationwide.
Shettima made this remark on Wednesday during the kick-off meeting for establishing an Operating Model for Economic and Financial Inclusion in the Office of the Vice President.
The federal government had on April 25, 2024 unveiled the Aso Accord on Economic and Financial Inclusion, a multi-pronged blueprint designed to achieve universal access to financial services.
The accord represents a core pillar of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda to transform the nation into a $1trillion economy by 2030, while combating poverty and insecurity through broad-based prosperity.
Addressing members of the team and other stakeholders at the maiden meeting, the Vice President noted that the idea is to provide access to capital and eradicate poverty through legislative interventions and critical policies.
According to Shettima, at the heart of every strategy championed by President Tinubu, there has been the need to prioritise inclusive economic growth and development.
He listed some positive results the efforts have yielded to include the recent upgrade of Nigeria’s credit outlook to positive by Fitch Ratings, noting that it is in recognition of the reform progress under President Tinubu.
Shettima pointed out that due to the administration’s belief that its approach to inclusive growth must be strategic and sustainable, economic and financial inclusion was elevated to the agenda of the National Economic Council (NEC), where all governors of the 36 states and the FCT minister participate in crucial policy deliberations alongside other stakeholders.
He implored members of the implementation team and all stakeholders involved in the initiative to recognise the weight of their responsibility, saying what they have at hand is a vital national assignment.
He said: “You have been entrusted with a vital national assignment, and I have full confidence that you will bring your best efforts to ensure its success.
“As we embark on this essential initiative, I call upon each of you to contribute your insights, expertise, and dedication. Only through such resolve and discipline can we forge a robust operating model that will drive economic and financial inclusion across our nation, ensuring every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive.”
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