SEC advises stakeholders to harness ISA 2025 for capital market expansion
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has called on stakeholders to take full advantage of the newly enacted Investments and Securities Act, 2025 (ISA 2025), as part of efforts to deepen Nigeria’s capital market and stimulate broader economic development.
Dr Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the SEC, made this appeal during a stakeholder forum held on Thursday in Lagos. Represented by Mr Habib Abubakar, Head of the Market Development Department, Agama said the forum was an important platform for addressing existing challenges and ensuring the reforms embedded in ISA 2025 benefit businesses, investors, and the economy at large.
The forum, organised by the SEC in collaboration with the Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), was themed “Unlocking Capital Market Opportunities for Business Growth and Development.”
Dr Agama outlined three foundational pillars for unlocking the full potential of the new legislation, beginning with improved market accessibility and inclusivity. He stated that ISA 2025 introduces simplified registration and listing procedures, which will enable small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to raise long-term capital more easily and affordably.
He further noted that the recognition of digital assets within the Act provides an opportunity to widen investment access, particularly among underserved populations, while enhanced investor protections would build trust and attract broader participation.
The second pillar, according to Agama, is focused on fostering innovation and market diversification. He pointed to the expanded product offerings enabled by the Act, such as sustainability-linked bonds, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and private equity funds.
He added that ISA 2025 would support responsible innovation in fintech and digital assets, while also encouraging sector-specific financing in key areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, and renewable energy.
The third pillar is the strengthening of collaboration and advocacy. Agama underscored the importance of public-private partnerships to raise awareness about the Act and promote regulatory harmony. He also called for sustained stakeholder engagement to ensure that the implementation of ISA 2025 remains aligned with market realities.
“Realising the opportunities within this Act will require everyone’s active involvement,” he said, urging businesses to embrace capital market instruments for expansion and encouraging investors to explore the broad array of investment opportunities now available.
He also stressed the importance of financial literacy, noting that expanding public understanding of the capital market is crucial for broad-based participation and national development.
The SEC boss commended the LCCI for its ongoing collaboration and acknowledged the support of sponsors Trovotech and HXAfrica in advancing the commission’s initiatives.
Agama expressed hope that participants would leave the forum equipped with insights to drive concrete action and contribute to sustainable business growth.
During another session, Mr John Briggs, Head of the Lagos Zonal Office, delivered a presentation titled “Navigating the Capital Market: Understanding the Regulatory Framework and Opportunities for Business.” He outlined the business prospects presented by the capital market under the new legal framework and explained the SEC’s regulatory initiatives.
Briggs disclosed that the National Pension Commission (PenCom) had been introduced to the board of the SEC, a development he said could lead to increased investments by Pension Fund Administrators in the capital market.
He also pointed to the need to repeal outdated elements within the Trustee Investment Act, particularly as they relate to ISA 2025, and called on the government to take necessary legislative action.