Financial Experts back book aimed at teaching children about money

A new children’s book titled “Cracking the Money Code” was officially launched to a room filled with education leaders, banking professionals, parents, and advocates for child development.

The event, held in Lagos, highlighted a growing urgency to introduce children to financial literacy at an early age.

The book, authored by financial expert Iyobosa Sorae, is described as a tool aimed at “building future financial wizards, one page at a time.” It is tailored for children aged 6 to 11, offering lessons on saving, budgeting, prioritising needs, and basic entrepreneurship.

The event began with an emotional address from the author. Iyobosa shared her motivation, stating, “This is my why… that every child, whether in Lagos or Abuja, public or private school, would have access to financial literacy.” Drawing on relatable stories of Nigerian children, Chinedu and Demola, she illustrated the value of both real-world experience and formal education in mastering money skills.

Industry leaders praised the initiative. Abubakar Jimoh, CEO of TrustBanc, recounted his professional relationship with Iyobosa. He noted, “When someone like that writes a book like this, you can be sure they put their best in it.”

Also speaking was Onayemi Aiwerioghene, Head of Enterprise Management at Coronation Group, who gave a personal account of her children fighting over who would read the book first. She read excerpts aloud and shared her reflections: “Growing up, I just thought if you had pocket money, you spent it. This book teaches more than that.”

Funke Ladimeji, Chairperson of the Association of Professional Women Bankers, announced the group’s intention to fully support the book under their “Catch Them Young” initiative. “Teaching children to understand money is about teaching confidence, responsibility, and independence,” she said, calling the book a “roadmap” for future generations.

A panel discussion followed, reinforcing the message that financial literacy is not just a nice-to-have but a critical life skill. One speaker pointed out, “We have adults today who can’t manage money. The earlier we begin to talk about it with children, the better.”

The event was interactive, with participants sharing lessons they wish they had learned as children. A parent spoke about how a family doughnut business during tough economic times taught them the value of earning. Another recounted a conversation with her son, who claimed not to care about money. She responded, “That’s because daddy and mummy still shield you. When you’re on your own, you’ll care.”

Abimbola Fashola, former First Lady of Lagos State, shared her thoughts: “After hearing about Cracking the Money Code, I believe it’s crucial to start teaching children about money early. At home, my children know that any extra chores earn money, which they must save. It’s important to teach them not to spend every penny. In my NGO, I focus on financial literacy, showing children the importance of saving. This book is a great resource, and I plan to give it as gifts to children.”

Attendees left with a unified message — that the future of Nigeria’s economy and society depends on raising children who understand money. Cracking the Money Code is being positioned not just as a book, but as a national movement to demystify finance from childhood.

The author expressed hope that the book would enter homes, schools, and curricula nationwide. “It must not sit idle on a shelf,” she said in her closing words.

Chisom Michael

Chisom Michael is a data analyst (audience engagement) and writer at BusinessDay, with diverse experience in the media industry. He holds a BSc in Industrial Physics from Imo State University and an MEng in Computer Science and Technology from Liaoning Univerisity of Technology China. He specialises in listicle writing, profiles and leveraging his skills in audience engagement analysis and data-driven insights to create compelling content that resonates with readers.