Nigeria’s challenges are opportunities in disguise – Falaki

A financial expert and advocate for youth development, Mr Akinsanmi Falaki, has advocated comprehensive strategies towards attaining financial freedom against the current economic challenges being faced by Nigerians.

Falaki who is a Deputy General Manager with the Keystone Bank spoke on Saturday at the 2nd Public lecture and Award ceremony organised by the Osun State Chapter of Ekiti State University Alumni Association held in Osogbo, Osun State.

Delivering a lecturer titled “Navigating Economic Challenges: The Secret to Financial Freedom”, Falaki said that we must first recognize the economic challenges we face as a people, despite the vast human and natural resources and youthful population we are blessed with, our Nation still stands at a crossroad with issues such as inflation, unemployment, corruption, and fluctuating exchange rates, which often feel like heavy anchors weighing down our aspirations.

He emphasized that the challenges we face are not insurmountable and they are opportunities in disguise.

“Each obstacle presents us with a chance to innovate, adapt, and grow. They teach us resilience, innovation, and the importance of strategic decision-making,” he said.

“The economic landscape may change, but our ability to adapt and thrive is what defines us. Let’s not forget that storms can also be a catalyst for transformation. It’s during tough times that we can sharpen our awareness, lay the groundwork for resilience, and discover innovative solutions.

“As an Alumni Association, we have a unique advantage – we possess the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to effect change within our communities and beyond. Each of you carries a legacy forged in the fires of challenges. You’ve encountered obstacles in your academia, in your professional trajectories, and, whether borne through trials or triumphs, you hold trustworthy keys to unlocking financial freedom.”

Highlighting the keys to navigating the economic turbulent waters for financial fortunes, Falaki hammered on the power of mindset and the need for citizens to create a smart goals centred on financial literacy and renewed commitment to entrepreneurship development.

“True change begins from within, you must change inside before there can be an external change. When addressing economic challenges, the first secret to financial freedom lies in our mindset.

“You cannot solve a problem with the same mind that created it which essentially means that to resolve a problem, you need to approach it with a new perspective, not the same mindset that led to the problem in the first place. It emphasizes the need for critical thinking and a shift in perspective to find solutions.”