SDGforHer empowers Makoko girls with financial literacy

In a bid to promote gender inclusion and equip young girls with essential life skills, the Sustainable Development Goals for Her Initiative (SDGforHer) has held a financial literacy workshop for primary school girls in the underserved Makoko community of Lagos.

The event, organised under the group’s flagship programme HerLittleKolo, featured engaging classroom sessions on money management, savings, and basic investment concepts tailored for girls aged 5 to 11.

Each participant also received a savings box—fondly referred to as a “kolo”—designed to reinforce the lessons and encourage immediate practice of saving habits.

Since its inception, HerLittleKolo has reached over 150 girls, providing not just financial education but also the tools to kickstart their personal journey toward financial independence.

The initiative reflects SDGforHer’s broader mission to bridge the gender gap in financial literacy, especially among girls in low-income communities who often lack access to such learning opportunities.

Addressing the pupils during the workshop, SDGforHer founder, Mrs Hannah Ayilaran-Omon, stressed the importance of building a savings culture early in life.

“Teaching young girls how to manage money responsibly is an investment in their future. Financial empowerment must start early, particularly in communities where access to this kind of education is limited,” she said.

She noted that HerLittleKolo not only introduces financial concepts in simple, relatable ways but also fosters a sense of responsibility and independence in girls, setting them on the path to becoming financially confident adults.

“At SDGforHer, we believe that financial literacy is a powerful equaliser,” Ayilaran-Omon added.

“We are committed to ensuring that every girl, regardless of her background, has the tools and knowledge to shape her financial future.”

The initiative is part of SDGforHer’s ongoing efforts to advance Sustainable Development Goal 5—achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls—through practical, grassroots interventions.