NGX Group and Federal Government Forge Partnership to Enhance Women's Inclusion in Capital Markets
Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to drive women's economic empowerment and foster greater gender inclusion within Nigeria's capital markets. This collaboration was highlighted during a visit by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, to NGX Group, which included a ceremonial Closing Gong event.
Leadership Commends Women's Role in Economic Progress
During the visit, the Chairman of NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga, praised the ministry's leadership in promoting women's development and economic participation. He emphasized the critical role women play in Nigeria's economic advancement, stating, "Women are central to Nigeria's economic progress. As we work towards a more inclusive and resilient economy, the capital market remains a vital platform for expanding access to finance, supporting women-led enterprises, and enabling broader participation in wealth creation."
Kwairanga further affirmed NGX Group's commitment to the partnership, adding, "NGX Group remains committed to partnering with the ministry to drive sustainable impact and empower the next generation of women leaders."
SEC Director-General Stresses Intentional Inclusion
In a related development, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr Emomotimi Agama, underscored the importance of deliberate efforts to include women in the capital markets. He remarked, "Behind every successful market are women. For Nigeria's capital market to reach its full potential, we must be intentional about empowering women as active participants."
SEC Nigeria's Global Recognition and Re-election
Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Nigeria (SEC Nigeria) has announced the re-election of its Director-General, Emomotimi Agama, as Vice Chair of the Africa/Middle East Regional Committee (AMERC) of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) for a second term, spanning 2026–2028. IOSCO, established in 1983, serves as the global standard-setter for the securities industry and is recognized as the leading international policy forum for securities regulators, with members overseeing over 95% of the world's securities markets across more than 100 jurisdictions.
This re-election, 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.
Opportunities for Global Engagement
The re-election presents a significant opportunity for SEC Nigeria to deepen its engagement at the highest level of global securities regulation. As AMERC's Vice Chair, Nigeria will maintain a seat on the IOSCO Board, the organisation's highest policy-making body. This position ensures that Nigeria's perspectives, experiences, and priorities are represented in key discussions that shape global capital market standards, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border cooperation.
Key aspects of this development include:
- Enhanced representation for Nigeria in international financial market discussions.
- Strengthened regulatory frameworks through global collaboration.
- Increased opportunities for cross-border cooperation in securities regulation.
Overall, these initiatives underscore a concerted effort to promote gender equality and elevate Nigeria's standing in the global financial landscape.
