Abuja, Nigeria – In a significant push toward financial inclusion, Moniepoint Inc., Africa’s fastest-growing financial institution as recognized by the Financial Times, has teamed up with ACIOE Associates and Tech4Dev to host a transformative two-day workshop in Abuja. The workshop, held with the goal of empowering women entrepreneurs and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), focused on equipping participants with critical skills in financial management and online security.
With more than 100 small and micro-enterprise owners in attendance, the initiative provided hands-on training in financial planning, budgeting, cybersecurity, and safe online payment practices. Organizers emphasized the need for gender-inclusive financial literacy, noting that women and PWDs often face significant barriers in accessing financial tools and services necessary to grow their businesses and secure their livelihoods.
Bridging Financial Literacy Gaps to Drive Inclusion
In regions like Nigeria, where gaps in financial literacy can stifle economic progress, the workshop sought to empower participants with practical knowledge. Studies have shown that improved financial literacy leads to greater access to essential services, better financial decision-making, and enhanced economic development.
Addressing the gathering, Tosin Eniolorunda, Group CEO of Moniepoint Inc., stressed the transformative power of financial literacy.
“Financial literacy is crucial for economic and social inclusion, especially for women,” Eniolorunda remarked. “When women understand financial concepts, they gain the confidence to manage their finances, access services, and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
He further emphasized the need to provide long-term support to businesses, particularly those in the informal sector, noting that many enterprises struggle to survive beyond their fifth year due to a lack of financial planning and access to credit.
Tackling Cybersecurity Challenges for Vulnerable Groups
Alongside financial literacy, participants received training on cyber hygiene and how to safeguard their businesses from digital threats. Innocent Isichei, Managing Partner at ACIOE Associates, underscored the importance of online security for women and PWDs, who are increasingly vulnerable to digital scams and financial exploitation.
“A secure digital environment is essential for economic empowerment,” Isichei stated. “Women and PWDs face unique challenges, including limited access to credit and financial discrimination. Initiatives like this workshop are critical to breaking down those barriers.”
Participants hailed the program as an invaluable resource, equipping them with the tools to navigate the digital economy confidently while protecting their businesses from cyber risks.
A Step Toward Economic Inclusion and Gender Equality
This workshop is part of Moniepoint’s broader commitment to financial inclusion across Africa, particularly among underserved groups. By empowering women and PWDs with the skills to manage their finances and stay safe online, the initiative aims to foster entrepreneurship, promote gender equality, and drive sustainable economic growth.
The collaboration between Moniepoint, ACIOE, and Tech4Dev highlights the growing recognition of financial education as a key driver of wealth creation and economic resilience. With the success of this workshop, stakeholders hope to expand similar initiatives to reach more vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
As the participants left the event equipped with new financial tools and cybersecurity knowledge, many expressed optimism about the future, eager to apply their newfound skills to grow their businesses and thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.
“This workshop has been an eye-opener,” said one participant. “The knowledge I gained today will help me secure my business and make better financial decisions moving forward.”
Through such impactful programs, Moniepoint and its partners are paving the way for a more inclusive economy where every individual—regardless of gender or ability—can access the resources they need to succeed.
