Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN) and Prudence Foundation have empowered primary school students with essential financial literacy skills.

This was at the 2024/2025 MoneyBee Competition, where they emphasised the importance of early financial education in shaping a financially- responsible generation.

The programme was conducted in two phases: Cha-Ching, which introduced pupils to fundamental financial literacy concepts, and MoneyBee, the competition phase that tested their knowledge and decision-making skills. For the competition, over 25,000 pupils from 20 states participated, advancing through multiple stages, from school-level contests to a rigorous E-examination, which identified the top 40 qualifiers. The competition culminated in a highly engaging hybrid Grand Finale, where eight outstanding finalists vied for the top prizes.

At the final stage, the pupils demonstrated their financial knowledge and critical thinking skills, ultimately revealing the top three overall winners.

Akosile Opendoors from God’s Foundation School, Ondo State, emerged as the first-place winner, followed by Abdulrahman Burhan from Sacson Nursery and Primary School, Lagos State, in second place, and Adedoyin Delight from M & N Model School, Akure, Ondo State, in third place.

Head of Branding & Communications-Project, Prudence Foundation, Jennifer Okereke, highlighted the long-term benefits of the initiative, stating that financial literacy is a critical life skill.

He emphasised that through the programme, young minds have been equipped with the necessary knowledge to make smart money choices from an early age. She reiterated that by teaching the principles of earning, saving, spending, and donating, the initiative is shaping a generation that understands financial responsibility and is paving the way for a financially savvy future.

Programme Officer, MoneyBee Competition,  Oluwatosin Oyetayo, said the project was a thrilling experience, showcasing the remarkable financial knowledge and critical thinking abilities of young pupils.

According to Oyetayo, the event was more than just a competition — it was a celebration of learning, digital inclusion, and the promising future of financially savvy young minds.

Executive Director, JAN, Ugonna Achebe, stated that financial literacy is a fundamental life skill, adding that the MoneyBee Competition plays a vital role in ensuring that young Nigerians develop a strong foundation in financial decision-making.

She noted that it was inspiring to witness pupils showcase their knowledge and confidence at every stage of the competition.