Agama stresses transparency, accountability for investor

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Barbara Bako, Abuja.

The Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has underscored the need for greater accountability and transparency as crucial to strengthening investor confidence in Nigeria’s capital market.

Dr. Agama made the remarks while delivering a goodwill message at a stakeholder engagement on internal control over financial reporting in the public sector, held in Abuja.

The event, themed “Strengthening Accounting and Transparency through ICRC,” was organized by Smith Ighodalo Adewale Odiachi (SIAO) under the Internal Control over Financial Reporting (ICFR), in collaboration with the Financial Reporting Council (FRC).

According to the SEC boss, robust internal control systems over financial reporting are vital to safeguarding market integrity and boosting investor trust.

“Internal control over our financial reporting is a critical part of disclosures. Whether in the securities market, for public companies, or other organizations, these controls strengthen accountability, transparency, and integrity within the financial system,” Agama stated.

He noted that investor confidence is directly tied to how transparent and accountable financial institutions and market operators remain.

“For investors, what matters is knowing that there is accountability, that people are doing what they ought to do, and stewardship is being upheld,” he said.

“When investors see that management is committed to these principles, they are more likely to invest,” Dr. Agama said.

The SEC DG also highlighted the recent passage of the Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 25, describing it as a landmark in capital market reform.

He noted, “The ISA 2025 has introduced key reforms aimed at fostering a more transparent and efficient market. We are already seeing improved investor sentiment and increased confidence in the system.”

Dr. Agama further assured that under his leadership, the SEC will continue to uphold professionalism and strict adherence to the law as guiding principles in driving capital market growth.