SEC Urges Nigerians to Harness Demographic Dividend for Economic Growth and Financial Inclusion by 2030

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has called on Nigerians to take advantage of the country’s youthful and growing population to foster economic growth and improve financial inclusion by 2030. The SEC Director-General, Emomotimi Agama, made this statement at the United Capital Asset Management Investment Forum in Lagos, emphasizing that Nigeria’s demographic advantage must be leveraged with urgency to close the knowledge and wealth gap.

Agama stressed that financial inclusion is more than access to financial services; it is about empowerment through participation in the capital market. He warned that if the country fails to harness its demographic dividend, inequality would worsen. According to him, the existing disparity between those with financial knowledge and those without is both an economic concern and a moral issue.

The SEC boss also highlighted the gender gap in financial inclusion, noting that narrowing it could lift approximately 700,000 Nigerians out of poverty. He lamented that despite Nigeria’s large population, only a small portion of citizens actively participate in the capital market, which continues to hinder national wealth creation and poverty reduction.

As an example of progress, Agama cited MTN Nigeria’s recent share offering, which brought in 150,000 new investors—75 percent women and 85 percent under the age of 40—demonstrating the potential of inclusive market strategies. He stated that such initiatives help turn capital into a tool for transformation and broader inclusion.

To achieve the 2030 goal, Agama proposed a four-pillar approach: democratizing financial knowledge, stimulating MSME investment channels, de-risking loans for women-led businesses through partnerships, and building deliberate momentum in the market. He urged Nigerians to take an active role, not just as participants but as advocates for a more inclusive financial ecosystem.

Source: Punch