Over 80% of Nigerian students now operate bank accounts, the National Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has revealed. Zayyad Abubakar from NDIC’s bank examinations unit made the disclosure on Thursday in Minna during an event marking World Savings Day 2026. He credited the increase to the corporation’s efforts in encouraging students to embrace a savings culture.
Abubakar explained that NDIC’s sustained campaigns in recent years have successfully mobilized students toward financial inclusion. “More than 80% of students now have bank accounts, having embraced the savings culture,” he said, highlighting the impact of these initiatives.
He also addressed the liquidation of Heritage Bank, stating that NDIC has paid most insured customers within five days of the bank’s licence revocation. “Only customers with account irregularities, such as BVN issues, are yet to be paid. Once these are resolved, affected customers will receive their funds,” Abubakar assured.
Tanko Ibrahim of NDIC’s Public Affairs Unit emphasized the role of education in building financial resilience. Delivering a lecture titled “Building Financial Resilience,” he explained that the World Savings Day 2026 celebrations covered ten states and included 200 students selected for a sensitization programme to encourage savings and investment from a young age.
Ibrahim added that the annual programme has significantly boosted student participation in banking activities while also encouraging parents to open bank accounts for their children. The initiative continues to strengthen financial literacy and inclusion among young Nigerians.
