SEC Urges Nigerian Stockbrokers to Strengthen Ethics and Embrace Digital Innovation for Market Integrity
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has urged Nigerian stockbrokers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct to sustain trust and transparency in the nation’s capital market. Director-General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, made this call during the 29th Annual Conference of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) held over the weekend in Abuja. He emphasized that the credibility of Nigeria’s financial ecosystem depends on brokers who demonstrate honesty, integrity, and competence in managing investors’ wealth.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Capital Markets in a Digital, Ethical, Sustainable Era: Pathways for Economic Transformation,” Agama noted that the topic was timely, reflecting a new global order where digital transformation, ethics, and sustainability define the evolution of modern finance. He explained that these three dimensions are interlinked pillars driving an inclusive and resilient market. “They form the very foundation of a modern capital market that inspires confidence and attracts long-term investment,” he said.
Dr. Agama highlighted that technology continues to reshape global capital markets, introducing innovations such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital trading platforms that are redefining how investments are raised, monitored, and managed. He disclosed that the SEC has adopted several digital initiatives to boost efficiency and investor protection, including automated regulatory processes, advanced surveillance systems, and risk-based supervision frameworks tailored to align Nigeria’s market with international standards.
The SEC boss stressed, however, that no level of innovation can replace the core value of ethics. “A truly transformative capital market must be built on integrity, transparency, and accountability,” he remarked. Agama commended the CIS for promoting professionalism within the stockbroking community and reiterated the Commission’s commitment to fostering a disciplined, ethical, and investor-focused industry. He also emphasized continuous training and ethical education as vital to sustaining market confidence.
In conclusion, Agama reaffirmed the SEC’s collaboration with stakeholders such as the CIS to strengthen capacity-building, digital literacy, and ethical standards across the market. He said the Commission remains committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s capital market evolves into a digitally advanced, ethically sound, and globally competitive ecosystem capable of supporting sustainable economic growth.
source: The Sun