Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called upon governments and stakeholders across Nigeria to prioritize the creation of a more inclusive economy, one where no individual is overlooked, every voice is heard, and everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
Sanwo-Olu delivered this message during the 2024 International Financial Inclusion Conference (IFIC 2024), organized by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The event, themed “Inclusive Growth: Harnessing Financial Inclusion for Economic Development,” took place at the Landmark Event Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos. The governor was represented by his Deputy, Obafemi Hamzat.
In his address, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of pursuing financial inclusion with dedication and a collective vision for a Nigeria where all citizens can access the resources and tools they need to succeed.
He stated, “Let us continue this important work with passion and a shared commitment to a Nigeria where every citizen has the means to thrive. We must remain dedicated to building an inclusive economy that ensures no one is left behind and that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.”
Addressing the relevance of the conference’s theme, he highlighted that financial inclusion is fundamentally about empowering individuals, lifting them out of poverty, and equipping them to make informed choices for better lives for themselves and their families. He underscored the necessity of enabling hardworking citizens to both contribute to and benefit from the nation’s economic growth.
Governor Sanwo-Olu elaborated that promoting financial inclusion in Lagos and throughout Nigeria involves creating pathways for millions to access opportunities, helping them transcend the barriers posed by poverty, unemployment, and geographic limitations.
He acknowledged the significant contributions of small business owners, artisans, and traders who, with access to financial resources, have transitioned from mere survival to thriving enterprises.
Sanwo-Olu also stressed the need for technology to be implemented with a human-centered approach that appreciates the needs, culture, and aspirations of the people it serves. “In Lagos, we are embracing technological advancements and fostering policies that support the growth of Fintech. We believe technology is a powerful tool for economic empowerment, particularly when it is designed with inclusivity at its heart,” he remarked.
Furthermore, the governor affirmed that the government recognizes its responsibility to facilitate the journey of small business owners by eliminating barriers, implementing enabling policies that protect and empower them, and collaborating with financial institutions to ensure that opportunities are accessible to all.
