SEC Launches Group to Attract 20M Investors via Tech

On Friday, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) inaugurated a liquidity working group in Abuja, targeting the attraction of 20 million new investors to Nigeria's capital market using technology-driven solutions. SEC Director-General Emomotimi Agama emphasized the importance of expanding investor participation to improve market liquidity and resilience.

Despite notable growth in the capital market, participation remains limited to a small segment of the population, undermining efficient capital allocation. The SEC plans to leverage digital platforms and fintech partnerships to convert millions of passive savers into active investors.

Agama highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the dematerialization of share certificates and collaboration with financial technology firms. The recent enactment of the Investment Securities Act 2025 will bring regulatory oversight to digital assets, creating new investment opportunities.

As of April 2024, Nigeria's capital market was valued at N55 trillion, with a significant contribution to GDP, but structural weaknesses and uneven liquidity across listed securities remain challenges.