Financial Inclusion as Tools for Survival in Globally Competitive Environment: Lessons for Nigerian Microfinance Banks

Abstract

  Microfinance bank is an engine of economic growth especially in this era of global economic met down syndrome; its activity could not be underestimated. For micro finance banks to stay competitive, they must strive to differentiate themselves from their competitors. One of those diverse ways is through their inclusion strategies. Access to finance, especially by the poor and vulnerable groups is a prerequisite for employment, poverty reduction and social cohesion. Furthermore, access to finance will empower the vulnerable groups by giving them opportunity to have bank accounts, save and invest. The main objective of this research paper is to examine causes of financial exclusion in Nigeria and to identify financial inclusion strategies that Microfinance banks could employ in order to survive in a global competitive environment. Personal interview was used to collect data from all microfinance bank managers in Osun state, Nigeria. This research paper identified causes of financial exclusion in Nigeria. Recommendations were made on financial inclusion strategies micro finance banks can employ to enhance savings in rural areas and survive in a globally competitive environment. The result implied that for microfinance banks in Nigeria to achieve its stated objectives and compete with her peers globally, financial inclusion strategies must be employed.