The federal government, through the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, is working together with the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Group Plc to deepen the participation of women in capital markets.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, underscored the urgency of inclusion in achieving national economic ambitions.
“The capital market reflects our collective choices, who participates, who has access, and who benefits. Women remain underrepresented in formal finance despite their critical role in Nigeria’s productivity.
“Through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, we are working to change this narrative and expand opportunities for women across the economy.
“Achieving a one-trillion-dollar economy requires the full participation of Nigerian women,” she said at the closing gong ceremony at the NGX on Tuesday in Lagos.
She said the government was ready to partner with capital market stakeholders to expand financial access and unlock opportunities for women across the country.
Welcoming the Minister, the chairman of NGX Group, Mr Umaru Kwairanga, commended the Ministry’s leadership in promoting women’s development and economic participation.
“Women are central to Nigeria’s economic progress. As we work towards a more inclusive and resilient economy, the capital market remains a vital platform for expanding access to finance, supporting women-led enterprises, and enabling broader participation in wealth creation.
“NGX Group remains committed to partnering with the Ministry to drive sustainable impact and empower the next generation of women leaders,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Mr Emomotimi Agama, emphasised the importance of deliberate inclusion.
“Behind every successful market are women. For Nigeria’s capital market to reach its full potential, we must be intentional about empowering women as active participants.
“Current participation levels do not yet reflect our population or potential. Collaborations like this send a strong call to action for more women across Nigeria to engage with the market and contribute to national growth,” the SEC chief stated.
On his part, the chief executive of NGX Group, Mr Temi Popoola, said, “At NGX Group, we are building a dynamic and inclusive market ecosystem that expands access to investment opportunities and supports diverse participants. Through partnerships such as this, we are unlocking new pathways for women to participate as investors, entrepreneurs, and wealth creators.”