Wema Bank Unveils ALAT XPLORE: Nigeria’s First Licensed Banking App for Teenagers

In a groundbreaking move to promote financial literacy among the youth, Wema Bank has announced the launch of the ALAT XPLORE App, Nigeria’s first licensed banking application tailored specifically for teenagers aged 13 to 17. The app, set to officially launch on October 26, 2024, is designed to empower young individuals with essential money management skills while navigating their financial futures.

“Financial literacy is no longer optional; it is a crucial life skill,” said Wema Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Moruf Osunbiyi. “With the ALAT XPLORE App, we aim to provide teenagers with a safe and interactive platform to learn about banking, saving, and responsible spending.”

The ALAT XPLORE App stands out as a comprehensive financial tool, integrating education, engagement, and empowerment for teenagers. Its user-friendly interface encourages young users to take control of their finances, while also allowing them to personalize their experience. Users can select from three unique debit card designs, instilling a sense of ownership and responsibility.

One of the app’s most innovative features is its goal-setting functionality. Teenagers can set savings targets—whether for a new gadget, a fun outing, or charitable donations—and track their progress in real-time. “This makes the saving process not just practical but also enjoyable,” Osunbiyi explained. “We want teens to feel excited about managing their finances.”

The app is designed with security in mind, allowing parents to guide their children through financial decisions. Parents can oversee their teenager’s transactions and even approve money requests made through the app. “This promotes healthy conversations about budgeting and financial goals,” Osunbiyi noted. “It’s about fostering trust and ensuring teenagers can explore financial opportunities safely.”

Here’s how the ALAT XPLORE App works:

1. Parents or guardians open an ALAT App account for their teenager.
2. The teenager downloads the ALAT XPLORE App and fills in the required information, sending a link to their parent/guardian for approval.
3. The parent/guardian grants permission through the ALAT App.
4. Once approved, the teenager can access the app anytime, request a debit card, set savings goals, and explore its features.

As the first licensed banking app for teenagers in Nigeria, ALAT XPLORE is poised to transform how young people manage their finances. The app not only prepares them for adulthood but also builds a foundation for financial responsibility.

“By introducing this app, we are setting the stage for a new generation of financially savvy adults,” Osunbiyi added. “We believe that early exposure to financial management is key to building a sustainable future for our youth.”

Teenagers eager to explore the app can download it now from the PlayStore or AppStore, while registration for the virtual launch event is also open. The ALAT XPLORE App represents a significant step forward in making financial literacy accessible and engaging for Nigeria’s youth, paving the way for a more financially responsible future.