President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the takeoff of the first phase of the Consumer Credit Scheme, aimed at empowering Nigerians to improve their quality of life through access to goods and services.
According to a statement by Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, consumer credit serves as the lifeblood of modern economies, enabling citizens to enhance their quality of life by accessing goods and services upfront, paying responsibly over time.
He said it facilitates crucial purchases, such as homes, vehicles, education, and healthcare, essential for ongoing stability to pursue their aspirations.
Ngelale said, “through responsible repayment, individuals build credit histories, unlocking more opportunities for a better life.
“Additionally, the increased demand for goods and services stimulates local industry and job creation.
“The President believes every hardworking Nigerian should have access to social mobility, with consumer credit plays a pivotal role in achieving this vision.”
He further said the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) achieves its mandate through “Strengthening Nigeria’s credit reporting systems, ensuring every economically active citizen has a dependable credit score. This score becomes personal equity they build, facilitating access to consumer credit.
“Offering credit guarantees and wholesale lending to financial institutions dedicated to broadening consumer credit access today.
“Promoting responsible consumer credit as a pathway to an improved quality of life, fostering a cultural shift towards growth and financial responsibility.”
Ngalale added that in line with the President’s directive to expand consumer credit access to Nigerians, the CREDICORP has launched a portal for Nigerians to express interest in receiving consumer credit.
“This initiative, in collaboration with financial institutions and cooperatives nationwide, aims to broaden consumer credit availability.
“Working Nigerians interested in receiving consumer credit can visit www.credicorp.ng to express interest. The deadline is May 15, 2024.
“The scheme will be rolled out in phases, starting with members of the civil service and cascading to members of the public,” he stated.