The Federal Government has called on women across Nigeria to explore investment opportunities in the capital market, describing it as a vital tool for wealth creation and economic empowerment. This appeal was made during the launch of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Podcast in Abuja, an initiative aimed at boosting financial literacy and inclusion. The government emphasised the transformative potential of women’s participation in the capital market, linking it to Nigeria’s broader economic ambitions, including its $1 trillion economy target.
The Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, who officiated the launch, highlighted the importance of creating pathways for women to participate in the capital market. “Opening opportunities for women in the capital market would create a pathway to wealth creation. We need to come up with more policies, reforms, or frameworks that encourage more women to participate in the financial sector,” she stated. Uzoka-Anite noted that women’s innate financial acumen makes them well-suited for investment activities, adding, “Women are very good with investing; we know what to do with money. We know how to manage money in the house, and it will go around the whole family.
The SEC Podcast, described as “very innovative and highly needed at this time,” is designed to bridge the knowledge gap about the capital market and empower Nigerians, especially women, to participate actively. SEC Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, explained that the podcast aims to reach people in the most remote parts of the country, educating them on how to create wealth through the capital market.
In addition to the podcast, the SEC announced plans to train selected women in capital market activities through its training arm, the Nigerian Capital Market Institute (NCMI). This initiative is part of the commission’s efforts to commemorate International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme, ‘Women: The Voice of the Capital Market.’ Agama emphasised the critical role women play in driving economic growth, stating, “The $1 trillion economy being proposed by President Bola Tinubu cannot be possible without women. If you want to grow this market today, one of the greatest apostles will be women.”
The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, welcomed the initiative, noting that empowering women financially is key to achieving sustainable development. She highlighted the importance of providing women with the knowledge and tools to participate in the capital market, which will not only benefit them individually but also contribute to the nation’s economic transformation.
The government’s push for women’s inclusion in the capital market aligns with its broader economic goals, including job creation, poverty reduction, and achieving a $1 trillion economy. By leveraging the capital market, Nigerian women can unlock new opportunities for wealth creation, economic growth, and prosperity.
The SEC’s commitment to training and educating women on capital market activities underscores its recognition of the unique challenges women face in balancing professional and familial responsibilities. Uzoka-Anite called for a dual approach to support women’s involvement in the financial sector, combining individual efforts with institutional support. “Assisting women in the capital market is a multi-pronged approach; the individuals need to do more to be heard. The institutional approach, where we encourage institutions to give women a chance, to treat women based on their competencies and capacities, and encourage them, is equally critical,” she said.
As Nigeria strives to achieve its economic ambitions, the active participation of women in the capital market will play a vital role in driving sustainable development and economic transformation. The SEC’s initiatives, including the podcast and training programs, are expected to empower women, bridge the knowledge gap, and create a more inclusive financial ecosystem.
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