Six Unconventional Must-Have Assets for Nigerian Women

By Dr. Sarah Amana

In Nigeria, women are increasingly taking charge of their financial futures, breaking barriers in entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, and wealth creation. Yet, achieving financial security requires more than traditional assets like cash savings or real estate. In today’s dynamic world, unconventional assets have become vital tools for long-term financial success and independence.

Here, we explore six must-have unconventional assets for Nigerian women and how they can help secure their financial future.

1. Financial Literacy

While financial literacy may not seem like a tangible asset, its value is immense. A solid understanding of personal finance enables women to make informed decisions about earning, saving, investing, and borrowing.

Research by Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access (EFInA) shows that 64% of Nigerian adults lack basic financial literacy, and women are disproportionately affected. Yet, financial literacy can help women escape the cycle of poverty and build sustainable wealth.

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“Financial literacy is not just a skill; it is empowerment. When women understand money, they take control of their futures,” says Nimi Akinkugbe, a renowned personal finance expert.

How to Acquire It:
• Take courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy.
• Follow financial thought leaders on social media.
• Join financial literacy programs, such as those offered by Rich Aunty Finance.

2. A Personal Brand

In today’s interconnected world, a strong personal brand is an asset that opens doors to career opportunities, partnerships, and investments. Nigerian women with well-established personal brands often secure consulting gigs, speaking engagements, and brand collaborations.

Social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn allow women to showcase their expertise and connect with influential networks. For example, Nigerian tech entrepreneur Odunayo Eweniyi leveraged her personal brand to advocate for gender equity and secure funding for women-focused initiatives.

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“Your personal brand is your reputation in the marketplace. It’s the new currency,” says Forbes Africa’s Top 30 Under 30 honoree, Arese Ugwu.

How to Build It:
• Identify your niche and strengths.
• Share your expertise consistently through blogs, podcasts, or social media.
• Network actively in professional circles.

3. Digital Skills

In an era dominated by technology, digital skills are indispensable. Nigerian women who learn coding, graphic design, data analysis, or digital marketing are better equipped to secure remote jobs, start online businesses, or freelance globally.

The African Development Bank (AfDB) highlights that digital skills are essential for bridging gender gaps in the workforce, especially in tech-driven economies like Nigeria.

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“Digital skills are the keys to global opportunities. Nigerian women must leverage technology to compete on a global scale,” says Funke Opeke, CEO of MainOne.

How to Acquire It:
• Enroll in programs like SheCodes or Lagos Innovates.
• Use free resources like Google Digital Skills for Africa.

4. Networks and Mentors

A strong professional network is an asset that often goes unnoticed. Networks connect women to mentors, job opportunities, and funding sources. Mentorship, in particular, is crucial for career growth and entrepreneurship.

The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women estimates that women entrepreneurs with mentors are five times more likely to succeed than those without.

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“No woman is an island. Your network is your net worth,” says Ibukun Awosika, former Chair of First Bank of Nigeria.

How to Build Networks:
• Join professional associations like WIMBIZ (Women in Management, Business, and Public Service).
• Attend industry events and conferences.
• Leverage LinkedIn for meaningful connections.

5. Diversified Investments

While real estate remains a popular choice, unconventional investments like agriculture, stock markets, and cryptocurrency are gaining traction among Nigerian women. Diversification reduces risk and enhances financial security.

For example, platforms like Farmcrowdy allow women to invest in agriculture with minimal capital. Similarly, apps like Bamboo and Trove offer access to global stocks, empowering women to diversify their portfolios.

Research Insight:
According to the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), female participation in investment activities grew by 15% between 2020 and 2023, signaling increased awareness among women.

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“Women must diversify their investments to stay ahead in an unpredictable economy,” advises Tony Elumelu, Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist.

6. Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

While often overlooked, emotional intelligence is a critical asset for navigating personal and professional relationships. Women with high EQ can manage stress, resolve conflicts, and make sound decisions under pressure—traits that are invaluable in leadership and business.

Research from the Harvard Business Review indicates that leaders with high emotional intelligence are more effective, and women naturally score higher on EQ traits like empathy and adaptability.

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“Emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of effective leadership. Women who master it will always have an edge,” says Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General.

How to Develop EQ:
• Practice self-awareness through journaling or meditation.
• Seek feedback from peers and mentors.
• Attend workshops on emotional intelligence and leadership.

Conclusion

The road to financial security and independence for Nigerian women is no longer limited to traditional assets like land or savings. Financial literacy, a strong personal brand, digital skills, networks, diversified investments, and emotional intelligence are essential assets for thriving in today’s economy.

As more women embrace these unconventional tools, they will not only secure their financial futures but also contribute to the economic transformation of Nigeria and Africa.

In the words of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie:
“We should all be feminists, and that includes empowering women to achieve financial freedom and independence.”

It’s time for Nigerian women to rethink their asset portfolios and invest in their growth, one unconventional asset at a time.

Dr. Sarah Amana is CEO of Rich Aunty Finance, a leading financial literacy and fund management company.