The Federal Government has introduced YouthCred, a national consumer credit scheme for Nigerians aged 18–39, including NYSC members, to expand credit access and boost financial literacy. Aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the programme offers low-interest, collateral-free loans without guarantors, managed by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP). Launched in July 2025, YouthCred has reached its 1,000th beneficiary and targets 400,000 youths nationwide.
Applicants must complete a digital financial literacy course covering credit management, repayment, and responsible borrowing. Beyond loan disbursement, the initiative drives nationwide credit reorientation through gamified learning and a fully digital onboarding process using BVN and NIN for swift verification. In some cases, financed items, such as digital devices, are delivered directly.
Initially focused on NYSC members, the scheme will soon extend to all employed youth and youth-owned businesses, with flexible repayment plans. It also emphasises data privacy, financial education, and youth empowerment to reshape Nigeria’s credit culture and foster economic inclusion.
