Visa, Firm Launch Financial Literacy Solutions

Visa, a global digital payment network company has gone into partnership with Co-creation Hub Nigeria, a social innovation center, to launch three locally-developed mobile applications.

These apps are specifically created to promote financial literacy in Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists during the inauguration of the apps in Lagos, the General Manager, West Afica, Visa, Ade Ashaye, noted that the initiative was part of his organisation’s strategy to help Nigerians become more financially aware.

The apps, which are free for users, comes in three packages, and it was developed to encourage financial education by making learning fun and entertaining and at the same time challenging users on their level of financial acumen.

The first app, 'Money Talks,' is an audio tutorial solution that provides financial information using SMS, voice, interactive system and the web. It can be heard in Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa and pidgin English.

The second app, 'More Than Money,' is a game developed to reinforce students’ money management skill. This is an adaptation of the community game used by Junior Achievement Nigeria in primary schools across Nigeria.

The third app, ' Market TraderStreet Tinz', is a mobile web-based game that teaches children how to make smart financial decision in a fun and engaging way.

This app targets children of illiterate parents, to help and assist them in making financial decisions.

“What is important is that these apps were developed by Nigeria for Nigerians. It was developed by people who understand the challenges. It is not somebody coming from outside, they understand the challenges already. Secondly, the platform being using are mobile phone and the Internet.

“So the platforms are becoming increasingly accessible to people who need this education and this information. So you got a solution which is been developed by someone who has a good understanding not only of the challenges but the culture. And when you marry those two together what you find over time is increase in ability for the right solution to meet and reach the people who need the solutions,” Ashaye added.

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer, Co-Creation Hub Nigeria, Bosun Tijani said: "CcHub is pleased to have worked with Visa to develop these three Mobile apps that will go a long way in helping Nigerians make better use of their income."

Furthermore, he said, playing with these apps would support the next generation towards a financially responsible life."

By Obinna Chima