First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has continued its financial literacy drive for secondary school students across Nigeria, helping young people build practical money management skills.

The initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as part of the 2026 Global Money Week celebration, reached thousands of students across the country’s six geopolitical zones.

The programme, themed ‘‘Smart Money Talks’’, was designed to help students understand basic financial concepts early and develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to make informed financial decisions in a complex economic environment.

Through interactive sessions in Lagos, Kano, Abuja, Adamawa, Ogun, Imo, and Akwa-Ibom states, students learned about prudent resource management, budgeting, responsible spending, saving culture, and productive use of money.

The initiative reflects FCMB’s commitment to promoting quality education, financial inclusion, and poverty reduction in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Speaking on the programme, FCMB’s Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs, Diran Olojo, said financial literacy remains a critical life skill for young people.

He said: “This initiative goes beyond teaching money management. Financial literacy empowers people, promotes responsible behaviour, and supports long-term economic inclusion. We want to nurture a generation that is informed, self-reliant, and equipped to make sound financial choices.”

Olojo added that FCMB remains committed to investing in young Nigerians through initiatives that equip them to navigate life with confidence and responsibility.

In his lecture to students of Hasiyanda Secondary School, Kano, FCMB’s Zonal Head, North-west, Ali Yahaya, said:

“Understanding money is one of the most important life skills you can develop. Financial literacy helps you make informed choices, avoid costly mistakes, and build a secure future regardless of your background or income level. Saving is not just about setting money aside; it builds discipline, resilience, and long-term thinking. Developing good financial habits early can shape opportunities and improve your future.”

He further advised students to build and earn income responsibly through creative skills, holiday jobs, and online businesses. He also urged parents to teach their children effective financial management by saving consistently and spending wisely.

Global Money Week is an annual international awareness campaign aimed at ensuring that children and young people acquire the financial knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviours necessary to make sound financial decisions and achieve financial wellbeing.

Since 2014, FCMB has provided financial education to nearly 20,000 secondary school students across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The programme also supports ongoing efforts to address low financial literacy levels in the country.

By continuing to support financial education initiatives, FCMB and the CBN are helping to raise a generation better equipped to make informed choices, manage resources responsibly and contribute meaningfully to society.