The SEC calls on Nigerians to harness demographic dividend for Nigeria financial inclusion and economic growth by 2030

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has called on Nigerians to harness the country’s demographic dividend to drive Nigeria financial inclusion and economic growth by 2030.

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Demographic dividend refers to the growth in an economy that results from a change in the age structure of a country’s population.

The Director General of the SEC, Emomotimi Agama, made this crucial call on Wednesday during the United Capital Asset Management Investment Forum in Lagos.

He emphasised the paramount importance of investing in knowledge and wealth to bridge Nigeria’s growing inequality gap.

“Our theme, ‘Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments’, is not aspirational; it is foundational to national survival,” Agama stated.

“We stand at a pivotal moment. By 2030, Nigeria can either harness its demographic dividend or face deepening inequality. The knowledge wealth gap is not merely an economic challenge; it is a moral imperative.”

Agama highlighted that true financial inclusion means active involvement in the capital market.

Our theme, ‘Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments’, is not aspirational; it is foundational to national survival.

Here, access is paired with empowerment, allowing capital to become a transformative tool for individuals and the nation.

He also pointed out the urgent need to close the financial inclusion gender gap, noting that doing so could lift 700,000 Nigerians out of poverty.

“Nigeria has a great population, yet only a tiny fraction participates in the capital market. That is one reason for persistent poverty: we are running from money,” Agama added, underscoring a significant barrier to prosperity.

He affirmed, “Our market capitalisation presents a tremendous opportunity to change this narrative.”

The SEC boss praised the positive impact of MTN Nigeria’s recent share offering.

This initiative attracted 150,000 new investors, with an impressive 75 percent being women and 85 percent under the age of 40.

To accelerate progress, Agama recommended a four pillar strategy.

This includes democratising financial knowledge, catalysing MSME investment channels, and partnering with institutions like the Bank of Industry to de risk loans for women led SMEs.

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“We need to educate people about finances. As we drive this market, we do so with a purpose. I enjoin everyone to be both disciples and apostles. Getting this market to move is a deliberate action,” he concluded, urging collective effort towards widespread financial literacy and participation.