By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) says Nigeria’s capital market is positioning data, artificial intelligence and technology-driven regulation at the centre of investment decision-making to attract both domestic and foreign capital.
Speaking at the FSDH Investor Conference 2026 in Lagos, SEC Director-General Emomotimi Agama said the future of investing will be defined by data intelligence rather than the volume of capital investors control.
According to him, the era of “intelligent investing” is driven by artificial intelligence, real-time analytics, distributed ledger technology and algorithmic systems reshaping global investment decisions.
Agama said the SEC is implementing its most comprehensive reform agenda, including faster settlement systems, tokenised securities, expanded digital asset regulation and derivatives market development.
A statement by the commission on Wednesday, quotes Agama as adding that the Commission is working toward T+1 settlement cycles and building a seven-pillar capital market infrastructure vision.
According to him, the SEC is also developing AI governance frameworks for market participants to ensure transparency, accountability and investor confidence.
“We are developing AI governance frameworks for capital market participants — frameworks that demand explainability, accountability and algorithmic fairness,” he said.
Agama said the SEC’s fintech-bank integration strategy targets about 20 million retail investors to deepen financial inclusion.
He added that investor protection is being strengthened through enforcement, financial literacy and a dedicated Investor Protection Department.
“Confidence is the ultimate asset in a capital market,” he said.
He noted that collaboration among regulators, fintechs and financial institutions will be key to building a resilient market and positioning Nigeria as a leading investment destination in Africa.
