The Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has called on Nigerians to seize opportunities in the capital market as a pathway to personal prosperity and national financial independence, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
In a goodwill message titled “Forging a New Legacy of Financial Independence”, Dr. Agama highlighted the capital market as a vital driver of economic empowerment. He emphasized that genuine independence is not limited to political sovereignty but must also include financial security and participation for every Nigerian.
According to him, under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, the capital market has been repositioned to serve as a “public square of prosperity for all,” rather than an enclave for a privileged minority.
He outlined ongoing reforms designed to deepen inclusion and democratize wealth creation. These include:
Full dematerialization of shares,
Expanded retail investor participation,
Introduction of innovative asset classes,
Strengthening of FinTech partnerships,
Reduction in time-to-market for securities,
Adoption of international best practices in fund valuation,
Reinforcement of corporate governance,
Promotion of financial literacy, and
A relentless campaign against Ponzi schemes that exploit unsuspecting Nigerians.
“These measures are not just regulatory updates; they are the building blocks of a financial democracy,” Dr. Agama stated. He stressed that every Nigerian—whether a civil servant in Makurdi, a tech entrepreneur in Yaba, a farmer in Kano, or a fisherman in Yenagoa—can now play a role in shaping the country’s economic future.
The SEC boss underscored that financial independence is fundamental to national dignity and shared prosperity. He explained that the capital market enables Nigerians to convert savings into productive investments that drive business growth and support critical infrastructure.
“When you buy a share, you become a part-owner of a Nigerian company. When you invest in a bond, you are funding the infrastructure that will power our future. This is the new face of patriotism,” he declared.
Dr. Agama further urged citizens to embrace financial literacy, develop a culture of consistent investing, and maintain a long-term outlook in order to build sustainable wealth. He described investment in the capital market as both a personal benefit and a patriotic duty, noting that widespread participation would enhance individual financial security while accelerating Nigeria’s economic transformation.
