Firm Eyes Pan-African Growth, Higher Capital Market Participation

Financial Trust Company is marking its 50th anniversary with a renewed push to evolve into a pan-African financial services group while advocating for broader participation in Nigeria’s capital market.

Group managing director, Omoniyi Ajayi said the milestone reflects five decades of resilience and trust, and will anchor the firm’s next phase on technology investment, retail investor inclusion, and strategic partnerships across Africa.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Ajayi said the anniversary, scheduled for May 14 in Lagos, represents more than longevity, it reflects the confidence reposed in FTC by clients, stakeholders, and the broader financial ecosystem over several generations.

He observed that despite the size and potential of the Nigerian economy, market participation remains relatively low, often due to limited financial literacy, perceived complexity, and access barriers.

He expressed optimism that the anniversary would drive greater awareness and encourage more Nigerians to engage with the capital market as a viable avenue for wealth creation and economic empowerment.

Ajayi also disclosed that FTC aims to evolve into a leading pan-African financial services group, rooted in Nigeria but with a growing presence across the continent.

He said this vision would be driven by sustained investment in technology, expansion of investment banking capabilities, increased inclusion of retail investors, and strategic partnerships across African markets.

He noted that the company’s next phase will be defined by growth, innovation, and measurable impact.

He explained that FTC was founded in 1976 by the late Otunba Olufemi Ajayi, at a time when Nigeria’s capital market was still in its infancy and largely dominated by foreign institutions.

According to him, FTC has distinguished itself as one of the pioneering indigenous dealing member firms, driven by a strong belief in the ability of Nigerians to build and sustain world-class financial institutions. He added that the firm has navigated decades of economic shifts while remaining operational, solvent, and relevant.

Ajayi emphasised that this continuity is not incidental but the result of deliberate strategy, disciplined reinvestment, and the ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

He said innovation will shape the company’s next phase of growth, as it invests in technology, expands its service offerings, and positions itself at the forefront of developments in financial markets.

As part of its anniversary activities, FTC will host a flagship Golden Jubilee Industry Symposium, bringing together regulators, capital market associations, policymakers, market operators, listed companies, and institutional investors for discussions on the future of Nigeria’s capital market.

Financial Trust Company is an indigenous stockbroking and financial services firm and an active participant in Nigeria’s capital market. Over the past five decades, the firm has played a significant role in deepening market participation and supporting economic development in the country.