Lagos: The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has advised stakeholders to fully harness the potential of the newly enacted Investments and Securities Act, 2025 (ISA 2025) to drive growth and development.
Dr Emomotimi Agama, the Director-General of SEC, said this was to drive business growth and expand Nigeria’s capital market.
Agama, represented by Mr Habib Abubakar, Head of the Market Development Department at the SEC, provided advice at a stakeholder forum on Thursday in Lagos.
The theme of the forum is “Unlocking Capital Market Opportunities for Business Growth and Development”.
The forum was organised by the SEC in collaboration with the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
Agama said the gathering provided an opportunity to tackle existing challenges and ensure that businesses, investors and the wider economy benefit from the reforms introduced by the new law.
He outlined three key pillars for maximising the impact of ISA 2025, beginning with enhancing market accessibility and inclusivity.
He explained that the Act’s simplified registration and listing processes would make it easier for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to raise affordable, long-term capital.
He noted that leveraging technology, especially with ISA 2025’s recognition of digital assets, would democratise investment opportunities and reach underserved groups, while strengthened investor protection would help build trust and boost participation.
The second pillar, he said, was promoting innovation and diversification by expanding product offerings, such as sustainability-linked bonds, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and private equity funds, all of which were enabled by the Act’s provisions.
He added that the new law would facilitate responsible fintech and digital asset innovation while encouraging targeted financing for key sectors, such as agriculture, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
Agama identified strengthening collaboration and advocacy as the third pillar, while calling for stronger public-private partnerships to raise awareness about ISA 2025.
He said this would ensure the harmonisation of regulatory policies to build a cohesive market and ongoing stakeholder engagement to align the Act’s provisions with market realities.
“Unlocking these opportunities requires the active participation of everyone,” he said.
He urged businesses to adopt capital market instruments for expansion.
He advised investors to explore the diverse options available, urging stakeholders to promote financial literacy so more Nigerians can participate.
He emphasised that the capital market is not just a funding platform but a strategic driver for national development.
Agama commended LCCI for its valuable partnership and appreciated sponsors, Trovotech and HXAfrica, for supporting efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s capital market.
He urged participants to leave the forum inspired, informed and ready to translate ideas into concrete action for the growth of businesses and the broader economy.
In another session, Lagos Zonal Office Head, Mr John Briggs, discussed “Navigating the Capital Market: Understanding the Regulatory Framework and Opportunities for Business”.
Briggs explained the business opportunities available within the Capital Market, the regulatory framework of ISA 2025, as well as the regulatory initiatives and innovations for businesses.
He hinted that the National Pension Commission (PenCom) had been introduced to the board of the SEC, which would translate to improved investment by Pension Fund Administrators at the Capital Market.
He highlighted the need to repeal outdated provisions in the Trustee Investment Act, specifically within the ISA 2025, and urged the government to take action.
