The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has emphasized the need for Nigeria to harness its demographic dividend to advance financial inclusion through investments by 2030 for national survival.
The Director-General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, made this call at the United Capital Asset Management Investment forum in Lagos.
Agama noted that Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment, where it can either harness its demographic dividend or face deepening inequality by 2030.
He emphasized that closing the financial inclusion gender gap could lift 700,000 Nigerians from poverty.
According to him, the knowledge-wealth gap is not merely an economic challenge but a moral imperative.
Agama recommended a four-pillar strategy for bridging the gaps, which includes democratization of financial knowledge, catalyzing MSME investment channels, blended finance vehicles, and partnering with the Bank of Industry (BOI) to de-risk loans for women-led SMEs.
He stressed the need to educate people about finances and encouraged everyone to be disciples and apostles in driving the market forward.
The SEC Director-General highlighted the success of MTN Nigeria’s share offering, which drew 150,000 new investors, with 75% being women and 85% under 40.
He emphasized the SEC’s commitment to protecting investors and developing the market, with a focus on fairness and equity.
Agama’s call for advanced financial inclusion is driven by the need for national survival.
He believes that by harnessing the demographic dividend and promoting financial inclusion, Nigeria can reduce poverty and inequality, and achieve sustainable economic growth.
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