SEC Begins Full E-registration For Capital Market Operators 

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has commenced implementation of a fully electronic registration process for capital market operators, allowing designated regulatory services to be completed entirely online.

The Commission announced the rollout on Wednesday, saying the new e-Registration platform deployed through its ePortal is part of its digital transformation agenda to modernise Nigeria’s capital market and improve regulatory efficiency.

According to the SEC, the platform enables Capital Market Operators (CMOs) to complete designated registration processes online. This includes application submission, regulatory review, approvals and communication of decisions, thereby eliminating manual processing for the services included in the current phase.

The regulator said the initiative is expected to simplify regulatory interactions, reduce administrative bottlenecks, shorten processing timelines and provide applicants with greater visibility into the status of their applications.

“The new platform represents a major step towards creating a seamless digital regulatory ecosystem that enhances operational efficiency while strengthening regulatory effectiveness,” the Commission said.

The SEC stated that migrating to a fully digital registration system will improve operational efficiency while strengthening regulatory oversight through standardised workflows, electronic documentation, secure digital record management and enhanced audit trails.

It added that beyond efficiency, the platform will enhance the integrity of regulatory processes by reducing delays associated with paper-based documentation and improving the quality of regulatory data for decision-making.

The Commission noted the digital system will also provide a stronger foundation for regulatory analytics and future innovations aimed at improving oversight of Nigeria’s capital market.

The SEC said the implementation is being carried out in phases to ensure a smooth transition* for market participants while maintaining stability and integrity of regulatory processes.

It clarified that the current phase is limited to post-registration services for existing Capital Market Operators.

The Commission urged all Capital Market Operators to familiarise themselves with the new platform and comply with implementation timelines to ensure a seamless transition.

The regulator reaffirmed that the initiative forms part of its broader modernisation agenda designed to improve regulatory efficiency, strengthen market infrastructure, enhance transparency and support the continued growth, resilience and global competitiveness of Nigeria’s capital market.