The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) have reaffirmed their dedication to empowering retail investors through financial education during the global IOSCO World Investor Week, held from October 7 to 13. This initiative aims to foster a better understanding of the capital markets among the public, especially retail investors who are increasingly playing a vital role in the economic landscape.
As part of the week’s activities, SEC and NGX hosted a financial literacy seminar at Pan-Atlantic University and the NGX Retail Investor Clinic. These events provided valuable insights into essential investing fundamentals, capital market strategies, and the growing significance of technology and sustainability in modern finance. Participants had the opportunity to engage with experts and gain practical knowledge on how to navigate the complexities of the investment landscape.
Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of SEC, emphasized the critical need for investor protection, stating, “Our mission is to safeguard investor interests while promoting informed participation.” Agama underscored the importance of creating a safe investment environment where retail investors can confidently engage in the market, thereby enhancing overall market participation.
Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NGX, highlighted the vital role of technology in finance, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable finance and innovation. He stated, “Technology is transforming the way we invest and manage our portfolios, making it essential for investors to adapt and embrace these changes.”
Jude Chiemeka, Chief Executive Officer of NGX, pointed out that education is fundamental in creating a secure investment environment. He noted, “By equipping individuals with the right tools, we’re building a more secure and resilient investment ecosystem.” Chiemeka stressed that financial literacy is not just a privilege but a necessity for every investor looking to thrive in the evolving market.
Femi Shobanjo, Chief Executive Officer of NGX RegCo, stressed the importance of a self-regulatory mandate to maintain trust and integrity within the market. He remarked, “Building trust with investors is paramount; self-regulation helps uphold the highest standards of market conduct and fosters confidence in our financial systems.”
Adedayo Hamzat, Group Managing Director of Zedcrest Group, encouraged investors to adopt technological advancements, noting that technology-driven portfolio diversification is essential for achieving long-term financial goals. He emphasized that investors should leverage digital tools and platforms to explore new investment opportunities and enhance their decision-making processes.
The week culminated in the “Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy” ceremony at NGX, which brought together SEC officials, market leaders, and stakeholders in a unified commitment to enhancing financial literacy across Nigeria. This ceremony served as a symbolic call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize education and awareness in the investment community.
Through these initiatives, SEC and NGX aim to foster a culture of informed investing, empower retail investors, and ultimately contribute to the growth and stability of Nigeria’s financial markets. As the landscape continues to evolve, ongoing education will be key to ensuring that all investors, particularly those in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), can navigate the challenges and opportunities within the financial ecosystem
