Nigeria’s ambition to become a $1 trillion economy hinges significantly on the strength and transformation of its capital market, Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has said.
Speaking at the Capital Market Committee (CMC) meeting—represented by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite—Edun noted that since 2015, the market has undergone major reforms, including enhanced governance, product innovation, stronger regulation, and increased investor confidence.
He credited the Capital Market Master Plan (2015–2025) with driving this transformation by improving market structure, competitiveness, and economic contribution. According to him, the revised plan now prioritizes digitalization, sustainability, financial inclusion, and capital formation to align with the federal government’s broader economic reforms.
Highlighting the new Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, Edun said it modernizes Nigeria’s legal and regulatory framework, streamlines enforcement, and addresses emerging trends such as digital assets and crowdfunding. He noted that this legislation is expected to deepen market participation and strengthen regulatory coordination.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a transparent environment where private sector innovation can thrive. He added that the capital market must not only serve as a platform for capital raising but also promote wealth creation, economic inclusion, and long-term national resilience.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), described the ISA 2025 as a game-changer. He outlined the Commission’s efforts to engage stakeholders, promote understanding of the new law, and rebuild investor confidence through a range of initiatives—including a dedicated implementation team, a national sensitization drive, and a new podcast series.
Agama highlighted the market’s robust performance in 2024, with the NGX All-Share Index gaining 37.65% and market capitalization surging by 53.39%. He stressed the Commission’s focus on regulatory reforms, investor protection, technology adoption, and financial inclusion—especially initiatives targeting women, youth, and grassroots communities.
The high point of the meeting was the official unveiling of the ISA 2025 and the launch of the newly upgraded SEC website.
