By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Unity Bank has taken on the pivotal role of cultivating financial literacy among secondary school students, setting the stage for a future generation savvy in savings and investment. As part of the 2025 Global Money Week celebrations, Unity Bank’s initiative made it to multiple schools nationwide, bringing a fresh breath of financial wisdom into young minds.

The Vision of Empowerment

The heart of this outreach, as shared by Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, the CEO of Unity Bank Plc, is empowering youth with sound financial judgment and habits. Through this initiative, the bank is determined to guide students in navigating the financial landscape, particularly in a world flooded with digital distractions.

Lessons at Boys Model Secondary School

In Owerri, at the Boys Model Secondary School, practical sessions delivered by the company’s Zonal Head, Mr. William Odigie, provided robust insights into managing finances wisely. Students were cautioned against impulsive spending, with a particular focus on the digital sphere, fostering a culture of thoughtfulness before financial actions.

Engaging Tomorrow’s Leaders

The theme for this year, Think before you follow, wise money tomorrow, was a guiding light during this instructive journey. Students were not just hearing lectures but actively participating in dialogues, scrubbing their financial acumen through exercises and lively quizzes. Those who excelled were awarded, reinforcing the value of knowledgeable financial management.

A Larger Initiative for Better Financial Inclusion

Unity Bank’s commitment transcends local activities; it is part of a wider effort to bring young individuals into the financial fold, supported by the Central Bank of Nigeria and Junior Achievement Nigeria. This national engagement taps into the power of collective learning and encouragement, as stated by Mr. Kolawole, “The habits you form now around saving, spending, and investing will shape your financial future.”

A Leap into Digital-Focused Banking

In a display of innovative banking solutions, Unity Bank’s introduction of the GenFi digital banking app provides a platform for growth. This youth-centric tool encourages children and teens to hone their financial prowess through gamification, aiding goal-setting, and supervised learning, embodying the bank’s push for practical, future-ready skills.

The Road Ahead

This initiative serves as a testament to Unity Bank’s unwavering commitment to the financial empowerment of Nigeria’s youth. By embedding these essential lessons today, they’re not only securing a discipline but also a future where financial independence and judicious investments form the backbone of the new generation’s ethos. According to Business Post Nigeria, Unity Bank’s dedication is a welcome stride toward nurturing well-rounded, financially informed young adults.