In a bid to enhance financial inclusion and literacy across Nigeria, particularly among young people in the state, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Cross River State Branch, organized a one-day career talk on financial literacy for students of Hope Waddell Training Institute and Army Day Secondary School, Calabar, on Thursday.
During their opening remarks at both schools, the Chairman of CIBN Cross River State Branch, Mr. Charles Emefiele, and Vice Chairman II, Dr. Ijeoma Iloeje, emphasized the importance of catching students young and guiding them to become financially responsible citizens as well as equipping young minds with essential financial knowledge and skills to help them make informed economic decisions in the future.
Highlighting the institute’s commitment to fostering financial education among young people, they noted that financial literacy is a crucial life skill, enabling young people to develop sound financial habits and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economy.
Furthermore, Emefiele and Iloeje emphasized that the one-day program was a key component of the CIBN’s strategic Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the state branch’s executive body, marking the successful conclusion of activities for the second quarter of the year.
In appreciation, representatives from the participating schools including students and staff expressed gratitude to the Cross River State Branch of CIBN for their initiative and dedication to youth development, stating that the session would have a lasting impact on the participating students.
They urged the institute to expand its outreach, bringing similar programs to more schools across Cross River State to benefit more student population.
The event featured interactive sessions where students had the opportunity to ask questions on key financial topics, including personal budgeting, banking services, savings culture, investments, and entrepreneurship, as well as guidance on developing the right skills for careers in the financial sector. To wrap up the impactful day, educational materials were distributed to the students, and group photographs were taken to commemorate the occasion.
In attendance were the Secretary of CIBN Cross River State Branch, Mr Augustine Olugu, Exco members, bankers and other members of the body.
