The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has instructed all Capital Market Operators (CMOs) to renew their registration between January 1 and 31, 2026, as part of a broader effort to enhance regulatory compliance and improve operational efficiency across Nigeria’s capital markets. The Commission also revealed that a new digital system will allow electronic receipt and processing of applications, streamlining the registration process.
Speaking in Abuja over the weekend, SEC Director General Emomotimi Agama explained that this initiative is part of the Commission’s digital transformation agenda. “These measures reflect our commitment to faster, more transparent, and technology-driven regulatory processes,” he said, noting that automation and secure digital infrastructure are central to improving market interactions.
Through the SEC Digital Transformation Portal, CMOs can now submit applications, upload documents, and track approvals entirely online. The platform also includes a Commercial Paper issuance module, which allows operators to file documents, monitor progress, and receive approvals electronically. Early feedback shows significant improvements in turnaround time, reducing the need for physical visits to the Commission.
Agama emphasized that the Commission is upgrading its IT infrastructure, including servers, networks, and security systems, while selectively migrating some platforms to the cloud. Plans are also underway to automate quarterly and annual returns, with system checks and dashboards to enhance accuracy and support risk-based supervision. Cybersecurity and data integrity remain top priorities, with vulnerability assessments and penetration testing forming part of the digital rollout.
Highlighting the broader vision, Agama stated that the SEC is focused on responsible technology adoption. He urged operators to maintain ethical, secure, and compliant use of automation and AI tools, safeguard investor data, and ensure transparency and accountability. “These efforts are essential to building investor trust, market stability, and the long-term credibility of Nigeria’s capital market,” he concluded.
source: The Sun