CreditRegistry has set an ambitious goal to enhance financial literacy for three million Nigerian families by 2030, focusing on empowering individuals with the knowledge needed to build generational wealth. Dr. Jameelah Sharrieff-Ayedun, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CreditRegistry, made this announcement during the annual Africa Credit Expo held in Abuja.
Sharrieff-Ayedun emphasized the critical role of financial literacy in wealth creation, stating, “Credit isn’t just a number. It’s a tool that opens the doors to financial freedom.” She explained that the expo aims to equip everyday Nigerians—students, small business owners, and families—with essential skills for managing credit and building wealth.
The initiative will cover vital topics such as savings, investments, insurance, and credit management, providing attendees with practical knowledge to navigate the financial landscape. “We want to ensure that people not only have access to credit but also understand how to use it responsibly to build strong credit profiles and create wealth for future generations,” she added.
The Africa Credit Expo, co-founded by CreditRegistry and AfreximBank, serves as a platform where experts from various financial sectors come together to share insights and strategies with the public. “Our goal is to make financial literacy accessible to all Nigerians,” Sharrieff-Ayedun stated. “We’re teaching people not just how to fish but how to own the pond so that they can feed their generations.”
Since launching its financial literacy initiative in 2023, CreditRegistry has already reached over a million Nigerians through webinars and in-person seminars. With the backing of sponsors and partners, the credit bureau aims to continue expanding its outreach to benefit more families across the nation.
Fatoumata Coker, Chairman of CreditRegistry, highlighted the pressing need for credit awareness among Nigerians. She noted, “Many people don’t know that they’re entitled to a free credit report every year. We want to educate the public on how credit works and how it can be used to expand their financial worth.” Coker stressed the expo’s focus on consumers, aiming to shift the narrative from business-centric views to empowering individuals to understand the significant benefits of maintaining good credit.
“Most people in Nigeria rely on cash transactions, but building credibility can open doors to more opportunities,” she added. By focusing on education and practical application, CreditRegistry seeks to foster a culture of financial responsibility among Nigerians.
A highlight of the expo was a panel discussion featuring industry leaders who explored strategies for financial literacy and wealth-building, particularly for women. Moderated by Coker, the conversation delved into personal development, discipline, and the significance of maintaining a trustworthy financial reputation.
Yetunde Oni, CEO of Union Bank, underscored the importance of character in accessing credit and scaling businesses. She stated that establishing a strong track record through banking relationships is essential for personal and business growth. “Your character matters just as much as your financial capacity,” Oni remarked, reinforcing the idea that integrity is key in the financial sector.
Tosin Leye-Odeyemi, Head of Risk at Stanbic IBTC, focused on the need for mentorship and advocacy for financial literacy, particularly among women. She encouraged women to take on the role of educators within their communities and families, sharing knowledge that can lead to collective financial empowerment. Leye-Odeyemi also highlighted Stanbic IBTC’s initiatives to support women-owned businesses through lower-interest loans and targeted capacity-building programs.
Folasade Femi-Lawal, Country Director of MasterCard, spoke about the crucial role of education and digital tools in fostering financial inclusion. She discussed MasterCard’s commitment to supporting startups, promoting STEM education for girls, and connecting women entrepreneurs to the digital economy by 2025. “Empowering women through education and technology is vital for creating a more inclusive financial landscape,” Femi-Lawal stated.
Yemisi Ransome-Kuti, Co-founder of Lagos Island Connect, emphasized that integrity and trust are foundational elements for business success and creditworthiness. She urged young people to cultivate strong character traits early in life, stating, “Personal responsibility and collective action are essential for building a prosperous Nigeria.” Ransome-Kuti’s insights underscored the importance of a community-driven approach to financial literacy and wealth-building.
The Africa Credit Expo and CreditRegistry’s initiatives represent a significant step toward fostering a financially literate society in Nigeria. By focusing on education and empowerment, these efforts aim to create a generation of financially savvy individuals capable of navigating the complexities of credit and wealth management. The long-term goal is to enhance the overall economic landscape of Nigeria and, by extension, the broader African region, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity for all.
