The Deputy Governor for Financial Systems Stability at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Philip Ikeazor, has emphasized the crucial role of financial inclusion in national development.
He made this disclosure during EFInA’s unveiling of its refreshed brand identity, five-year corporate strategy, and new CEO, Foyinsolami Akinjayeju.
Ikeazor noted that beyond providing data and funding, EFInA has played a key role in market development and driving discussions that have influenced financial inclusion policies.
“As we witness EFInA’s rebranding, we see a renewed commitment—not just to expanding access, but to ensuring that access translates into meaningful financial empowerment,” he said.
The event, themed “Beyond Financial Inclusion: A New Chapter Unfolds for EFInA,” gathered key stakeholders from the financial, government, development, and private sectors.
The event opened with an inspiring welcome remark by EFInA Board Chair, Dr. Tokunbo Agnes Martins, followed by engaging multimedia presentations, goodwill messages, and thought-provoking remarks from global and government leaders, reinforcing EFInA’s mission to drive economic empowerment and sustainable growth for all Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, Foyinsolami Akinjayeju, EFInA’s new CEO, stated, “EFInA is evolving to ensure that financial advancement goes beyond inclusion—our work is about creating real, measurable impact in the lives of the excluded and underserved, ensuring that financial services become a foundation for resilience, opportunity, and progress for every individual.”
EFInA’s brand identity reveal marked a symbolic transformation, with its refreshed visual identity and integrated brand architecture reinforcing its role as a dynamic leader. By combining research, advocacy, systems-strengthening, and innovation, EFInA continues to deliver impactful financial solutions through its key platforms: Access to Financial Services (A2F) Surveys, Gender Centre of Excellence (GCE), and Inclusion for All (I4ALL).
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, Technical Adviser to the President on Financial Inclusion and Economic Empowerment, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to EFInA’s mission.
“As we celebrate EFInA’s incredible work, we also recognise that it continues to evolve and adapt to Nigeria’s financial inclusion goals. This strategic realignment perfectly aligns with the current economic and financial reforms under this administration,” he said.
EFInA’s five-year strategy prioritizes deeper partnerships, innovative solutions, and measurable outcomes, with a strong focus on underserved communities, especially women and rural populations.
Looking ahead, EFInA remains committed to empowering Nigerians through access to transformative financial tools and solutions.
“Our refreshed brand identity and strategy are a call to action—to governments, private sector leaders, development partners, and communities—to work with EFInA in unlocking the future for all Nigerians. Together, we can build a resilient, inclusive, and thriving economy,” Akinjayeju said.
The event also featured EFInA board directors, including Professor Janice Olawoye and Mr. Kola Aina. Mr. Olu Akanmu formally closed the event with a call for greater collaboration. Jason Lamb, Deputy Director of Inclusive Financial Systems at the Gates Foundation, highlighted the vital role of financial inclusion in Nigeria’s economic development and EFInA’s continued catalytic impact.
