sec Archives - Business Today NG https://businesstodayng.com/tag/sec/ The Hub of News Reporting Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:54:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 IWD 2026: FG Rolls Out Grants, Microcredit for Women Nationwide https://businesstodayng.com/iwd-2026-fg-rolls-out-grants-microcredit-for-women-nationwide/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:54:00 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=62656 Left to Right Executive Commissioner Operations Securities and Exchange Commission Mr. Bola Ajomale, MD KudiMata Mrs. Kathleen Erhimu, Executive Commissioner Corporate Services SEC, Mrs. Samiya Usman, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim CEO NGX Regulation Limited Mr. Olufemi Shobanjo, Ag. mD Meristem Registrars Mrs. Nkechiyelu Okoye and CEO FinTribe Jennifer Awirigwe […]

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Left to Right Executive Commissioner Operations Securities and Exchange Commission Mr. Bola Ajomale, MD KudiMata Mrs. Kathleen Erhimu, Executive Commissioner Corporate Services SEC, Mrs. Samiya Usman, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim CEO NGX Regulation Limited Mr. Olufemi Shobanjo, Ag. mD Meristem Registrars Mrs. Nkechiyelu Okoye and CEO FinTribe Jennifer Awirigwe at the grand finale of the “Give to Gain” Summit to mark the 2026 International Women’s Month in Abuja, Monday

 

 

 

The Federal Government has outlined policies and financial market reforms aimed at tackling the persistent barriers facing women-owned businesses, particularly limited access to credit, markets, and long-term capital.

Speaking at the grand finale of the “Give to Gain” Summit in Abuja to mark the 2026 International Women’s Month, Monday, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said the government is shifting from advocacy to targeted interventions designed to unlock the economic potential of women.

The minister disclosed that over 80 per cent of women-owned businesses in Nigeria currently lack access to formal credit, largely confining them to the informal sector and limiting their growth.

To address this, she noted the rollout of the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions (RH-SII 774), a nationwide programme structured to deliver grants, microcredit, and enterprise financing to women across all 774 local government areas.

According to her, the initiative goes beyond funding to include skills acquisition, vocational training, agricultural value-chain support, clean energy solutions, and structured mentorship, all aimed at helping women scale their businesses sustainably.

She added that the intervention is backed by the Women’s Economic Empowerment (WEE) Policy (2023), which provides a framework for measurable and scalable outcomes in women-focused economic programmes.

In a major policy shift, the minister also announced the approval of an Affirmative Procurement Policy that guarantees women-owned businesses improved access to government contracts, opening up public procurement as a critical growth channel.

She said: “This landmark intervention ensures structured and equitable access for women-owned enterprises to participate in public procurement processes, thereby opening government contracting systems as engines of inclusion and shared prosperity.

“It represents a decisive shift from policy intention to enforceable economic access. In the spirit of our theme, “Give to Gain,” it affirms that when the State deliberately gives women fair opportunity in procurement systems, the nation gains in productivity, competitiveness, and inclusive growth”, the Minister added.

On the financial markets side, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, represented by Executive Commissioner, Operations, Mr. Bola Ajomale, emphasised the need to move women entrepreneurs from reliance on short-term financing to long-term wealth creation through the capital market.

He said while millions of Nigerian women are actively engaged in micro and small businesses, the key challenge is their limited access to investment instruments that enable business expansion and asset ownership.

According to him, “Nigerian women currently own 41 percent of micro-businesses in this country, with 23 million female entrepreneurs operating in that segment — placing Nigeria among the highest rates of female entrepreneurship globally, surpassing the 21 percent global average.

“These women are not waiting to be empowered. They are already driving commerce. What they lack is not ambition. They lack access to the instruments that would allow their ambition to compound”.

To bridge this gap, Agama outlined measures being implemented by the Commission, including the expansion of retail access to the capital market through technology-driven platforms that reduce entry barriers for first-time investors, especially women.

He said the Commission is also scaling investor education in local languages to improve financial literacy, particularly in underserved regions where exclusion rates remain high.

In addition, he explained that the SEC is promoting low-cost investment products tailored to women and small-scale entrepreneurs, enabling participation in collective investment schemes even at modest income levels.

Agama further noted that the Commission is integrating gender-focused considerations into Nigeria’s sustainable finance framework, creating opportunities for women-led businesses to access targeted funding through instruments such as gender-responsive and sustainability-linked securities.

To build trust and encourage participation, he said efforts are also being intensified to strengthen investor protection through improved market transparency, disclosure standards, and accessible dispute resolution mechanisms.

He called on private sector players to complement government efforts by lowering market access barriers, expanding financial services to underserved communities, and increasing women’s representation in corporate leadership.

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Lasaco Assurance Launches N18.47bn Rights Issue April https://businesstodayng.com/lasaco-assurance-launches-n18-47bn-rights-issue-april/ Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:11:54 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=62088 Lasaco Assurance Plc has announced a rights issue of 9,236,321,546 ordinary shares as part of efforts to reinforce its capital base and support future growth. This was disclosed by the company during a signing ceremony that took place at its Head office in Lagos, following the approval by the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and the […]

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Lasaco Assurance Plc has announced a rights issue of 9,236,321,546 ordinary shares as part of efforts to reinforce its capital base and support future growth.

This was disclosed by the company during a signing ceremony that took place at its Head office in Lagos, following the approval by the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The company had earlier had an extra general meeting where the shareholders supported the move for the company to raise capital from the market, through the process of right issue.

The offer, priced at ₦2.00 per share, involves ordinary shares of 50 kobo each and is being made on the basis of five new shares for every six existing shares held by shareholders.

According to details released by the company, the rights issue is open to shareholders whose names appeared on the register as at the close of business on Friday, February 20, 2026. The acceptance list is scheduled to open on April 2, 2026, and close on April 24, 2026.

The offer is expected to raise approximately ₦18.47 billion, providing fresh capital to enhance the underwriting capacity of the insurer and position it for expansion within Nigeria’s competitive insurance market.

The rights being offered will be tradable on the floor of the Nigerian Exchange Limited for the duration of the offer, giving shareholders the flexibility to either take up their rights or sell them in the market.

Financial advisers to the transaction include Meristem Capital Limited as the Lead Issuing House, alongside PAC Capital as Joint Issuing House.

The capital raise aligns with ongoing efforts by insurance companies to meet regulatory requirements and improve their balance sheets, while also positioning for increased participation in large-ticket risks across sectors of the economy.

The Managing Director, Lasaco Assurance Plc, Mr. Ademoye Shobo said, “At Lasaco, we will continue to ensure that our capital is always robust, so that we’re able to deliver on the mandates to the general public.”

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SEC, NOA Collaborate on Campaign Against Illegal Investment Schemes https://businesstodayng.com/sec-noa-collaborate-on-campaign-against-illegal-investment-schemes/ Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:16:03 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=61964 In a renewed effort to enlighten Nigerians especially those in the rural areas, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the National Orientation Agency have agreed to collaborate to carry out massive enlighten campaigns with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. During the signing ceremony in Abuja Wednesday, Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi […]

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In a renewed effort to enlighten Nigerians especially those in the rural areas, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the National Orientation Agency have agreed to collaborate to carry out massive enlighten campaigns with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

During the signing ceremony in Abuja Wednesday, Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama stressed the importance of educating and enlightening Nigerians on the dangers of investing in unregistered schemes popularly referred to as Ponzi schemes.
Agama who was represented by the Executive Commissioner Operations, Mr. Bola Ajomale, urged Nigerians to avoid Ponzi schemes, highlighting that guaranteed high returns are major red flags.
He warned that these fraudulent operations are not legitimate investments and advised verifying company registration with the SEC.
According to him, ‘We have in the last couple of months been concerned about the way Nigerians have been losing their hard earned money to illegal operators. We have taken some steps and one of which is to launch campaigns to enlighten Nigerians on the dangers of patronizing these operators. We have also gone ahead to enlighten our operators so that they too can join in these campaigns.

“But we have seen that these are not enough. We have realized that the NOA has the spread and we believe this collaboration will have a major impact all over the country.

Agama commended various government agencies that are collaborating with the SEC in its avowed commitment to combat Ponzi schemes, adding that it is for the benefit of the entire citizenry.
“For us at the SEC, it is an honor to host you. It is an honor for us to be able to sign this and I believe it is the beginning of some wonderful things to come to this country. Thank you very much” he added.
In his remarks, the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu expressed his excitement at the collaboration adding that he has directed his team to work with the SEC to achieve results within the shortest possible time.
Represented by Mr. David Akoji Director Special Duties and Zonal Cordination, Issa-Onilu said victims of Ponzi schemes have suffered tremendously adding that the NOA is willing to support any initiative that is aimed at checking the activities of such schemes.
“Nigerians are very vulnerable and it is important we enlighten them on the dangers of patronizing these schemes. The NOA is committed to this partnership and we therefore expect that after signing this MoU, we will commence work immediately,” he stated.

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SEC DG, Agama Re-elected AMERC Vice Chairman https://businesstodayng.com/sec-dg-agama-re-elected-amerc-chair/ Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:24:06 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=61946 BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Africa/Middle-East Regional Committee (AMERC) of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), have re-elected the Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission Nigeria (SEC Nigeria), Emomotimi Agama, as  its Vice Chair for a second term spanning 2026–2028. IOSCO was established in 1983, serves as the global standard-setter for the securities industry and is recognised […]

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BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Africa/Middle-East Regional Committee (AMERC) of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), have re-elected the Director-General, Securities and Exchange Commission Nigeria (SEC Nigeria), Emomotimi Agama, as  its Vice Chair for a second term spanning 2026–2028.

IOSCO was established in 1983, serves as the global standard-setter for the securities industry and is recognised as the leading international policy forum for securities regulators. Its members regulate more than 95 per cent of the world’s securities markets across over 100 jurisdictions.

A statement released by SEC, said “this appointment, confirmed by IOSCO, reflects the growing recognition of Nigeria’s capital market and its strategic importance within the Africa and Middle East region. It highlights the confidence of peer regulators in Nigeria’s leadership, regulatory progress, and continued commitment to strengthening capital market systems.

It added that “the  re-election also presents a significant opportunity for SEC Nigeria to deepen its engagement at the highest level of global securities regulation. As AMERC Vice Chair, Nigeria will maintain a seat on the IOSCO Board, the organisation’s highest policy-making body, where critical decisions shaping global capital market standards, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border cooperation are made. This position ensures that Nigeria’s perspectives, experiences, and priorities are represented in key discussions that influence the direction of international financial markets.

According to Agama, “Beyond representation, this development enhances Nigeria’s ability to contribute meaningfully to global regulatory dialogue, particularly in areas such as enforcement cooperation, market integrity, and investor protection. It creates a stronger platform for collaboration with other jurisdictions on cross-border regulatory issues, including tackling illicit financial flows and strengthening supervisory frameworks. The role further supports ongoing efforts to align Nigeria’s capital market with international best practices, fostering greater investor confidence and facilitating increased participation in global financial markets.

“Ultimately, this milestone reinforces Nigeria’s position as a leading voice in regional and global capital market development. It is expected to contribute to building a more resilient, transparent, and robust capital market ecosystem, not only within Nigeria but across the broader Africa and Middle East region. SEC Nigeria remains committed to leveraging this opportunity to advance regulatory excellence, deepen market integration, and support sustainable economic growth”.

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SEC, NYSC Collaborate on Nationwide Anti-Ponzi Campaign https://businesstodayng.com/sec-nysc-collaborate-on-nationwide-anti-ponzi-campaign/ Sun, 22 Mar 2026 21:31:38 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=61903 The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on a Community Development Service Group in the NYSC scheme to educate corps members on the risks of fraudulent investment schemes and nurture in them good habits for legitimate investment deals globally. Specifically, the MoU, […]

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The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on a Community Development Service Group in the NYSC scheme to educate corps members on the risks of fraudulent investment schemes and nurture in them good habits for legitimate investment deals globally.

Specifically, the MoU, which was recently signed by the Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama; and the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, at the NYSC headquarters in Abuja, aims to integrate anti-Ponzi scheme campaigns into NYSC’s existing Education and Enlightenment Community Development Service (CDS) programme; and Promote financial literacy and sound investment habits among young Nigerians.

In addition, the collaboration will help in equipping corps members with essential knowledge and skills to identify and avoid Ponzi schemes and other illegal investment practices; and Enhance public awareness campaigns against illegal financial schemes across all Local Government Areas in the country, among other objectives.

Based on the scope of the collaboration, the SEC shall develop and provide relevant and up-to-date educational content, materials, and training modules on capital market operations, safe investment practices, and the identification and avoidance of Ponzi schemes as well as be responsible for the content, resources and funding of training sessions for selected corps members and NYSC supervisors who will serve as trainers and facilitators in their respective communities.

On its part, the NYSC shall facilitate the integration of anti-Ponzi scheme education into its Education and Enlightenment CDS programme, and this may involve dedicated sessions, workshops, or awareness campaigns during orientation camps and throughout the service year.

The parties shall collaborate on joint awareness campaigns, utilizing various channels and platforms, including social media, traditional media, and community outreach, to disseminate information on safe investment and expose fraudulent schemes; and agree on mechanisms for sharing relevant data and reporting on the progress and impact of the collaborative initiatives.

Speaking during the signing of the MoU, the SEC Director-General recalled that the commission had been supporting the NYSC scheme by providing opportunities to hundreds of corps members to serve in the commission, demonstrating the management’s commitment to the success of the scheme.

Agama clarified: “We have NYSC members at the SEC in the range of 160-180 and there is no other institution in this country can actually boast of that. It shows our commitment to the NYSC scheme. We believe that we can train them. We can train them for the market, we can train them for the nation, we can train them for themselves and there is no corps member that has gone through the NYSC scheme at the SEC that has regretted it.

“For all of them, we consider them as staff of the SEC and not just anybody. They are not just individuals, they are people we believe in, they are people we trust in and we know that if we train and mold them well they will be better ambassadors of the SEC in the outside world”, the Director-General added.

In his remarks, the NYSC Director-General commended the SEC boss for making the signing of the MoU a reality, saying that the deal represents a Key Performance Index (KPI) for both organisations.

Nafiu also acknowledged the sundry initiatives being undertaken by the commission’s leadership in making people believe in the capital market, adding that it is good to catch the corpers young so they won’t partonize Ponzi schemes.

He assured: “We believe it’s the beginning of great things to come. After signing of the MoU, in the execution phase, we remain committed to every process to executing to the letter the terms to the betterment of the larger Nigerian society.”

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SEC: Capital Market Contribution to GDP Rises from 13% to 33% https://businesstodayng.com/sec-capital-market-contribution-to-gdp-rises-from-13-to-33/ Sun, 22 Feb 2026 20:52:45 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=61291 BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—Nigeria’s capital market contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has risen sharply from 13 per cent to 33 per cent since April 2024, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Emomotimi Agama, has disclosed. According to him, market capitalisation increased by 125 per cent within the same period, climbing from […]

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BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—Nigeria’s capital market contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has risen sharply from 13 per cent to 33 per cent since April 2024, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Emomotimi Agama, has disclosed.

According to him, market capitalisation increased by 125 per cent within the same period, climbing from about N55 trillion to over N123.93 trillion, reflecting what he described as renewed investor confidence and growing resilience in the Nigerian capital market.

He spoke in Lagos during his inaugural address to members of the Capital Market Working Group on Market Liquidity at the Commission’s office, where he stressed that while the growth figures are impressive, sustaining momentum will require deeper liquidity, improved market efficiency and broader participation.

The SEC boss described the growth figures as evidence of strong investor confidence and the resilience of the Nigerian capital market under the current administration, but stressed that market size alone was not enough without corresponding depth and liquidity.

“Since this administration came into being in April 2024, we have seen market capitalisation grow from about N55 trillion to over N123.93 trillion. Our contribution to GDP has moved from 13 per cent to 33 per cent. These are impressive figures, but they tell only part of the story,” he said.

According to him, liquidity remains critical to sustaining the growth momentum, noting that a market must be deep and efficient to effectively perform its primary function of capital formation.

“A capital market is often described as the barometer of an economy’s health. But for that barometer to be accurate, the market must be more than just large—it must be liquid,” he said.

Agama identified key structural challenges, including high transaction impact costs for institutional investors and the concentration of trading activities in a limited number of highly capitalised stocks, which he said leaves the broader market relatively shallow.

He warned that without sufficient liquidity, investors may be reluctant to enter the market if they are uncertain about their ability to exit positions without significant price distortions.

To address these concerns, the SEC inaugurated a multi-stakeholder Working Group comprising exchanges, custodians, fund managers, dealing members and other market operators. The group is expected to develop practical recommendations to improve trading efficiency, deepen participation and enhance price discovery.

Among its mandates are a comprehensive review of trading and settlement infrastructure, identification of technical and structural bottlenecks affecting transaction speed, and proposals to make Nigeria’s settlement cycle more competitive with other emerging markets.

The group is also expected to recommend measures to broaden retail participation, with the SEC targeting the onboarding of up to 20 million new investors through digital platforms, dematerialisation of share certificates and fintech partnerships.

Agama noted that product innovation would also be central to improving liquidity, particularly through the accelerated development of derivatives and other asset classes that can provide hedging opportunities and deepen market activity.

He added that the recently enacted Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 has expanded the Commission’s regulatory oversight to include digital assets, creating an opportunity to channel speculative interest into regulated and productive investment channels.

Emphasising the strategic importance of the sector, the SEC DG said it plays a critical role in financing infrastructure, supporting businesses and driving job creation.

“The capital market is not gambling; it is the engine of national development. It finances roads, powers factories and creates jobs,” he said.

Agama urged members of the Working Group to produce bold and practical recommendations that would strengthen liquidity and support the Federal Government’s broader ambition of building a trillion-dollar economy.

He added that while the recent surge in market capitalisation and GDP contribution reflects strong progress, the next phase of reforms would focus on ensuring that the market is not only large, but deep, inclusive and globally competitive.

In his remarks, chairman of the Committee and Group CEO of NGX, Mr. Temi Popoola thanked the SEC for the opportunity and assured the DG that the team understands its mandate and will diagnose structural constraints with candour, align on practical reforms, and deliver measurable actions that will deepen liquidity, restore confidence, and strengthen the resilience of our market.

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SEC Raises Capital Base for Operators, Sets June 30, 2027 Deadline https://businesstodayng.com/sec-raises-capital-base-for-operators-sets-june-30-2027-deadline/ Sat, 17 Jan 2026 07:03:36 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=60280 BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced minimum capital requirements for all categories of regulated capital market operators The commission disclosed this yesterday in a circular posted via its official website that the review is informed by the need to strengthen market resilience, enhance investor protection, align capital adequacy with the evolving […]

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BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced minimum capital requirements for all categories of regulated capital market operators

The commission disclosed this yesterday in a circular posted via its official website that the review is informed by the need to strengthen market resilience, enhance investor protection, align capital adequacy with the evolving risk profile of market activities, and ensure that regulated entities possess sufficient financial capacity to discharge their obligations in a sustainable manner.

“The revised Minimum Capital framework seeks to enhance the financial soundness and operational resilience of market operators; align capital requirements with the scope, complexity, and risk exposure of regulated activities; promote market stability and systemic risk mitigation; and support innovation and orderly development of new market segments, including digital assets and commodities markets.”

Under the new regime, Tier-1 Portfolio Managers managing Collective Investment Schemes (CIS) and Alternative Investment Funds with Net Asset Value (NAV) above N20 billion, or private portfolios exceeding N20 billion in Assets under Management (AuM), must now maintain a minimum capital of N5 billion, up from N150 million.

The SEC further directed that any fund or portfolio manager overseeing more than N100 billion in NAV or AuM must hold capital equivalent to at least 10 percent of the total.

Tier-2 Portfolio Managers with limited scope operations now require N2 billion minimum capital, also up from N150 million.

Similarly, broker-dealers offering client execution, proprietary trading, margin lending and advisory services must now maintain N2 billion in capital, compared with the previous N300 million threshold.

Issuing houses were also affected by the review. Tier-1 issuing houses that provide advisory services without underwriting must now hold N2 billion minimum capital, up from N200 million.

Tier-2 issuing houses that offer underwriting services will require N7 billion, a sharp rise from the previous N200 million.

The SEC also revised requirements for other categories: brokers focused solely on client execution must now maintain N600 million capital, up from N200 million, while proprietary dealers require N1 billion instead of N100 million.

Digital sub-brokers must now hold N100 million capital, up from N10 million, while corporate sub-brokers require N50 million. Individual sub-brokers now need N10 million, compared with N2 million previously.

Inter-dealer brokers saw one of the steepest adjustments, with minimum capital rising from N50 million to N2 billion.

TIMELINE FOR COMPLIANCE

The commission said that all affected entities are required to comply with the revised Minimum Capital Requirements on or before 30 June 2027.

It noted that entities that fail to meet the prescribed requirements within the stipulated timeline shall be subject to appropriate regulatory sanctions, including suspension or withdrawal of registration, as may be determined by the Commission.

TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND GUIDANCE

The Commission said it may, upon application and on a case-by-case basis, consider transitional arrangements where justified. Detailed guidance on compliance modalities and capital verification processes shall be issued separately.

The process takes effect from the date of publication.

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SEC, Police to Collaborate in Fight Against Illegal Schemes https://businesstodayng.com/sec-police-to-collaborate-in-fight-against-illegal-schemes/ Wed, 14 Jan 2026 18:58:10 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=60226 The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have pledged to strengthen their collaboration in combating illegal investment schemes, cryptocurrency fraud, and other financial crimes. The commitment was made during a between the Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama and the  Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun in Abuja […]

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The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have pledged to strengthen their collaboration in combating illegal investment schemes, cryptocurrency fraud, and other financial crimes.

The commitment was made during a between the Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama and the  Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun in Abuja Wednesday.

Agama said the SEC as the sentinel at the gate of Nigeria’s formal capital markets, has the mandate to protect investors, maintain fair, efficient, and transparent markets, and promote the growth of a vibrant economy built on trust, which are done by setting rules, licensing operators and market surveillance.

He however stated that the Commission faces adversaries who operate in the shadows, outside regulated gates by exploiting the trust of people and promising miraculous returns such as 200% in 30 days.

“They cloak their deceit in the glamorous but misunderstood language of cryptocurrency and forex trading. They target the vulnerable, the optimistic, and the simply unsuspecting, leaving behind a trail of shattered lives, depleted pensions, and broken trust. This is not just a financial crime; it is a social menace that erodes public confidence in our entire financial system.

“This is where our authority, as the SEC, meets its necessary complement: your power, your reach, and your mandate. The Nigeria Police Force is the primary law enforcement agency with the national presence, the investigative muscle, and the constitutional authority to track, apprehend, and bring these criminals to justice. Where we identify the illegality and the regulatory breach, you possess the apparatus for criminal investigation, arrest, and prosecution.

“Currently, there is a gap, a seam between identification and enforcement that these scammers exploit. Today, we aim to close that gap permanently. Therefore, we propose a robust, institutionalized collaboration with the following pillars: Joint Intelligence and Operations Task Force: Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer; Streamlined Processes for Enforcement and National Public Awareness Campaign’ he stated.

The SEC DG advocated the establishment of a dedicated SEC-NPF team that combines market intelligence, forensic accounting, and understanding of complex financial schemes with investigative and intelligence-gathering capabilities. This team will be the rapid-response unit to new frauds.
Agama also sought the permission of the IGP to go into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Cyber Security Unit of the Police Force in a bid to ensure the cyber space is safe for all Nigerians
“Mr. Inspector General, the fight against financial crime is a fight for the soul of our economy. It is a fight for the widow who has lost her savings, the youth lured by fake crypto promises, and the retiree seeking a safe return. The SEC cannot win this fight alone. The Police should not have to decipher these complex schemes without specialist support. Together, however, we form an impenetrable shield.
“Let this meeting be remembered as the day the two guardians of Nigeria’s safety the safety of our streets and the safety of our savings joined hands. Let us send a clear, unequivocal message to every scammer, from the dusty streets to the dark web: Your time is up. Nigeria’s investors are now under our combined protection. We are ready to work with you. We look forward to your guidance and partnership,” he added.
In his response, the IGP Kayode Egbetokun assured the SEC team that the Nigerian police Force, is ready to collaborate with the Commission, Strengthen partnership in all the ways possible, and ensure that the Commission achieves its aims.
He said, “Your role in the Securities and Exchange Commission is very crucial to the Nigerian Economy, and with our Supervision and Support from the government, we will ensure economic recovery and growth. If the police unit in SEC is strengthened, it is going to make so much impact in your enforcement drive. What you said speaks so much to your determination to ensuring effective drive in the Capital market and when we are able to achieve effective enforcement, it comes with so many benefits.
Egbetokun also congratulated the Commission on the recent achievement of 100 trillion naira market capitalization mark adding that it will aid economic growth and development.
“That is a very huge one, and on behalf of the entire police force, i congratulate you on this great achievement. l am happy to also hear from you that you are ready to strengthen the police enforcement unit that are attached to the SEC. on this note, I approve the collaboration with the Cyber Security Centre of the NPF” he added.

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NGX Group, CSCS, SEC, FMACTCE Rally Stakeholders to Accelerate Gender Equality in Nigeria https://businesstodayng.com/ngx-group-cscs-sec-fmactce-rally-stakeholders-to-accelerate-gender-equality-in-nigeria/ Sun, 09 Mar 2025 11:05:55 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=48080 Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), in collaboration with Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), hosted a high-impact symposium to mark International Women’s Day 2025. Themed “Accelerate Action for all Women: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment,” the event rallied stakeholders to drive gender inclusivity in Nigeria’s economy. Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and […]

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Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), in collaboration with Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), hosted a high-impact symposium to mark International Women’s Day 2025. Themed “Accelerate Action for all Women: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment,” the event rallied stakeholders to drive gender inclusivity in Nigeria’s economy.

Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), delivered the keynote, stressing the economic and social imperative of women’s empowerment. “Investments in education, vocational training, and capital access are crucial for sustainable growth,” she stated.

Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to gender diversity. “We are taking deliberate steps to ensure fairness and empowerment for women, enabling them to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth,” he said.

Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), called for reforms to boost women’s participation in capital markets. “We must push for policies that encourage female representation in leadership and governance. This is a collective responsibility,” he urged.

Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director and CEO of NGX Group and Chairman of CSCS, emphasized the urgency of the symposium’s theme, “Accelerate Action.” “We remain steadfast in our commitment to creating opportunities that empower women in business, finance, and leadership. Our goal is to build an ecosystem where women not only thrive but also inspire the next generation of leaders,” he remarked.

Haruna Jalo-Waziri, CEO of CSCS, highlighted the need for an inclusive financial ecosystem. “Accelerated action is about unlocking the full potential of our capital markets. At CSCS, we are dedicated to providing women with the tools and opportunities they need to excel,” he stated.

Dahlia Khalifa, Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa at IFC, underscored the economic necessity of gender equality. “Women are key drivers of innovation and growth. Removing barriers and expanding access to finance are critical to unlocking their potential. IFC remains committed to working with partners, including Nigerian Exchange Group, to champion gender equity, drive inclusive economic participation, and shape a future where all businesses can prosper,” she said.

The event featured a panel of accomplished female leaders, including Chalya Shagaya, Hilda Baci, Pai Gamde, Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes, Kari Tukur, Odiri Oginni, Solape Akinpelu, and Adaorie Udechukwu, who shared strategies for breaking barriers and fostering women’s economic empowerment. Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, emphasized the role of education and mentorship in bridging gender gaps.

NGX Group hosted the Ring the Bell for Gender Equality ceremony, a global initiative promoted by IFC, UN Global Compact, UN SSEI, UN Women, and the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE). The ceremony honoured women’s contributions to Nigeria’s capital markets and reinforced NGX Group’s commitment to inclusivity. The event, attended by veteran actress Joke Silva and female directors from NGX Group, Ojinika Olaghere, Lilian Olubi, Ummahani Ahmad Amin, Amina Mohammed as well as SEC Commissioner, Frana Chukwuogor, called for accelerated action to empower women across all sectors.

The symposium and the closing gong ceremony reinforced NGX Group’s role in driving gender equality and economic growth. As Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa aptly stated, “The time for rhetoric is over. It is time for action.”

The post NGX Group, CSCS, SEC, FMACTCE Rally Stakeholders to Accelerate Gender Equality in Nigeria appeared first on Business Today NG.

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SEC Rolls Out #investnigeria Enlightenment Campaign To Promote Investment In Capital Market https://businesstodayng.com/sec-rolls-out-investnigeria-enlightenment-campaign-to-promote-investment-in-capital-market/ Mon, 16 Dec 2024 03:05:16 +0000 https://businesstodayng.com/?p=46436 In its avowed commitment to ensure that more Nigerians are attracted to the capital market, the Securities and Exchange Commission has rolled out an enlightenment initiative tagged #investnigeria. Speaking at the official rollout at the weekend, Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama said the aim is to promote investment in the capital market […]

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In its avowed commitment to ensure that more Nigerians are attracted to the capital market, the Securities and Exchange Commission has rolled out an enlightenment initiative tagged #investnigeria.

Speaking at the official rollout at the weekend, Director General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama said the aim is to promote investment in the capital market through advertising, which he emphasized, has numerous benefits.

According to him, Some reasons why advertising can be an effective way to promote investment in the capital market are that it can educate potential investors about the benefits and opportunities of investing in the capital market, the campaigns improve literacy by helping investors understand various investment products, risks, and rewards and advertising can assist investors have access to investment opportunities by informing them about available investment opportunities, such as initial public offerings (IPOs), bonds, and mutual funds.

The SEC DG said the initiative would also benefit the economy as encouraging investment in the capital market can lead to increased economic activity, job creation, and GDP growth.
“Advertising can attract domestic and foreign investment, leading to increased capital formation and development of the capital market. Advertising can also aide Financial deepening as promoting investment in the capital market can contribute to financial deepening, making financial services more accessible and affordable.

Agama said the #investnigeria initiative also has enormous benefits for the capital market as it can attract more investors, leading to increased liquidity and market efficiency as well as promote transparency and disclosure, essential for a well-functioning capital market.

He noted that advertising can help the capital market become more competitive, attracting more issuers and investors both local and foreign adding that by promoting investment in the capital market through advertising, the Commission can increase awareness, improve financial literacy, and attract more investors, ultimately contributing to economic growth and development.

He disclosed that aside the billboards already being installed in different parts of the country, the Commission intends to utilize social media, online advertising, and email marketing to reach a wider audience.

“We hope to collaborate with financial influencers, bloggers, and thought leaders to promote investment in the capital market. We will also host seminars, workshops, and conferences to educate investors and promote investment opportunities, as well as leverage media coverage to raise awareness about the capital market and investment opportunities”, he added.

The SEC Boss stressed the need to equip investors with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the evolving financial landscape safely.

“One of the ways by which you can protect investors is obviously by equipping them with knowledge and giving them the know-how to discern between what is a good investment and what is not a good investment.

“I am talking about in terms of safety, in terms of avoiding risk, in terms of avoiding a ponzi scheme, or spotting a ponzi scheme when it’s there, or spotting a scam or even just taking care of their assets”, Agama said.

He underscored the knowledge-based nature of the capital market, stating, “We need to continue constant education in the capital market. The market is knowledge-based and we are committed to ensuring that information is made available to the investing public.
“The commission will continue to partner with relevant stakeholders to create more learning opportunities. That is the reason we have decided to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the message is taken to every part of this country as investor education can foster the growth and development of Nigeria’s capital market”.

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