The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has sharpened its focus on key areas such as exchange regulation and investment protection since the leadership of its current Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama. So far, the commission has relentlessly expressed the determination to deliver progressive regulations aimed at improving investor protection.
Also, Dr. Agama led a bold move towards the adoption of innovative financial instruments, fostering a more dynamic and investor-friendly environment. This proactive approach is a major factor behind the current increase in market confidence.
Since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in April 2024, the SEC has become a champion for renewed hope and growth in the Nigerian economic landscape. Under his guidance, the SEC has successfully simplified complex regulations, fostering a more transparent and trustworthy environment that has boosted both local and international investor confidence. This renewed faith in the market is paving the way for sustainable economic development.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in financial regulation. Before his current role, he served as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Capital Market Institute (NCMI) and held various key positions within the SEC. His extensive academic background includes a Ph.D. in Economics, with a research focus on the impact of cryptocurrency on macroeconomic variables in Nigeria. This fine blend of practical experience and academic knowledge fuels his progressive data-based approach to regulation.
Dr. Agama’s leadership so far also reveals his commitment to innovation, stakeholder engagement, and a vision to reposition the Nigerian capital market as a safe haven for investment to those seeking financial freedom and wealth creation.
Under Dr. Agama’s influence, the SEC has made major achievements such as the passage of the Investments and Securities Bill (ISB) 2025, which repeals the former act and refines the legal framework for the capital market to capture current circumstances.
The commission has also prioritized regulating the digital assets industry, with a programme through which dozens of cryptocurrency exchanges are reportedly applying for licenses. This is a thoughtful step toward creating a regulated and safe environment for digital asset trading.
Furthermore, the SEC is tackling prolonged identity management issues. They are also spearheading the introduction of innovative financial instruments to boost market liquidity and attract a wider range of investors.
During an interview on the “Moneyline with Nancy” TV show, Dr. Emomotimi Agama spoke of his work at the SEC. He stated that “Our work is a continuous journey toward building a capital market that is dynamic, fair, and transparent. We are not just a regulator; we are a partner in progress, and our commitment is to ensure that the market serves as a key engine for Nigeria’s economic prosperity.”
Barely 18 months into his appointment as the DG of SEC, Dr. Agama has led the commission to strategically deliver tangible results. The ripple effect of this is a significant surge in investor confidence, setting a new course for the capital market. The commission’s commitment to refining regulations, developing innovations, and protecting investors demonstrates a clear path for a brighter economic future. With these strategic initiatives, the SEC is well-positioned to champion sustainable economic growth and make the Nigerian capital market a global player.
