The Securities and Exchange Commission and financial industry stakeholders have called for increased participation of women in Nigeria’s capital market, highlighting their critical role in strengthening financial institutions and boosting investor confidence.
The call was made on Monday during an event held at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja to mark the International Women’s Day.
In his keynote address, the Director-General of the SEC, Emomotimi Agama, said women had remained vital contributors to the growth and stability of Nigeria’s financial system.
According to him, the commission continues to witness the dedication, leadership and resilience of female professionals across various roles within the organisation and the broader capital market ecosystem.
“Today, the Securities and Exchange Commission celebrates the women who stand as pillars of the Nigerian capital market,” he said, adding that women had consistently demonstrated passion and commitment in advancing the sector.
Agama also reflected on the influence women had on his professional career, revealing that his most significant mentor during his more than two decades at the commission was a woman who guided him with integrity and dedication.
He further acknowledged the contributions of notable female leaders who have served the commission, including former Director-General Arunma Oteh and former Acting Director-General Mary Uduk.
Also speaking at the event, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MoneyWise International, Toyin Alabi, urged women to strengthen their financial decision-making and actively explore investment opportunities within the capital market.
She noted that many women still face challenges in achieving financial empowerment despite working within financial institutions or related sectors.
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According to Alabi, achieving financial independence requires more than earning income, stressing the need for deliberate efforts in saving, investing and long-term wealth creation.
“Personal finance is 20 per cent knowledge and 80 per cent behaviour,” she said, while cautioning women to avoid fraudulent investment schemes and make informed financial decisions.
In her remarks, the Executive Commissioner for Legal and Enforcement at the SEC, Frana Chukwuogor, said women working within the commission had demonstrated resilience, professionalism and integrity in their duties.
She encouraged participants to contribute positively to society, particularly by promoting education and exposing fraudulent financial activities.
Similarly, the Executive Commissioner for Operations at the commission, Bola Ajomale, emphasised the importance of female leadership and mentorship in building strong institutions.
Ajomale noted that women often bring unique perspectives and thoughtful analysis to decision-making processes within organisations.
Participants at the event stressed the need to strengthen women’s inclusion and leadership across Nigeria’s financial ecosystem as part of the activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration.