Joel Ajayi
A Renowned academic and finance expert, Professor Victoria Ayishetu Enape, has called on Nigerians to adopt sound financial management practices to avoid falling into poverty after retirement.
Speaking during her professorial reception and book launch in Abuja on Saturday, Enape warned that poor financial habits continue to push many Nigerians — including former high earners — into avoidable economic hardship.
Her new book, “Financial Literacy: Navigating Wealth in the 21st Century,” was formally presented at the event, which drew dignitaries from various sectors, including law, governance, and mining.
“I have seen people who once had status and influence become beggars. Civil servants retire after decades of service with nothing to show for it because they failed to plan,” Enape said. “That’s what inspired me to return to my core calling — helping people manage their finances effectively.”
Enape emphasized that building financial stability goes beyond earning a salary or owning a business. According to her, it requires strategic planning, disciplined saving, informed investing, and preparation for the future — all of which she has dedicated her career to teaching.
She also stressed the importance of intergenerational wealth education, urging parents and educators to equip young Nigerians with the tools to manage money responsibly.
“If we teach our youth to value money and build wealth early, we will leave a lasting legacy,” she said.
Presenting the new book, Sebastian Hon (SAN) praised Enape’s clarity of purpose and the boldness with which she addresses the sensitive subject of money management.
“What’s remarkable is not just her message, but the courage to deliver it — especially as a woman in a field where financial literacy is often overlooked. Her work reminds us that money management is about discipline, not gender or status,” he noted.
Also speaking, Mr. Simon Nkom, Director-General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office and Chairman of the Occasion, said Enape’s advocacy aligns with Nigeria’s broader push for economic diversification, particularly in the solid minerals sector.
“Every state in Nigeria has mineral wealth. But unlocking that wealth demands more than resources — it demands financial intelligence, innovation, and discipline,” Nkom said, describing Professor Enape as a champion of accountability and transparency.
In her goodwill message, Mrs. Titi Abubakar, wife of the former Vice President, highlighted the need for early financial education at home. She encouraged parents to cultivate savings habits in their children using simple tools like coin boxes.
“When children open their savings boxes at the end of the month, it excites them. It teaches discipline. These early habits prevent financial struggles later in life,” she said.
Mrs. Abubakar also advocated for the use of age-appropriate financial literacy materials in homes and schools, noting that such resources can empower both children and adults.
Professor Enape’s renewed campaign for financial literacy comes at a critical time, as experts warn of increasing poverty and poor retirement planning among Nigerians. Her message — echoed by other speakers at the event — reinforces the urgent need for nationwide financial education and reform, beginning at both the individual and institutional levels.
