SEC Pushes AI, Data-Driven Regulation To Attract Investment Capital

The director-general of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Emomotimi Agama, has said Nigeria’s capital market is positioning data, artificial intelligence and technology-driven regulation at the centre of investment decision-making to attract both domestic and foreign capital.

Speaking at the FSDH Investor Conference 2026 in Lagos, Agama highlighted that the future of investment will increasingly depend on the quality of data and intelligence available to investors, rather than just the capital they command.

He remarked, “We stand at the brink of what is being termed the era of intelligent investing, a paradigm where data not only informs decisions but actively contributes to them.”

Agama noted that “the SEC is implementing the most expansive regulatory reform agenda in its history to ensure Nigeria competes effectively in the global investment landscape.

“The reforms are designed to foster a market environment that supports intelligent investing, featuring faster settlement systems, tokenised securities, and enhanced derivatives markets.”

According to him, the SEC’s seven-pillar vision for capital market infrastructure encompasses objectives like achieving T+1 settlement cycles, expanding regulations for digital assets, and establishing a comprehensive framework for tokenised securities.

“Furthermore, the SEC is developing frameworks for the governance of artificial intelligence applications within the capital market, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.”

Agama stated, “we are creating AI governance frameworks for capital market participants that prioritize explainability and fairness. Every investor in Nigeria has the right to understand the decision-making processes that impact their investments.”

He underscored the need for intelligent investing to be inclusive and accessible, with the SEC’s fintech-bank integration strategy aiming to engage approximately 20 million retail investors across the nation.

“By leveraging technology and data-driven investment tools, the SEC seeks to democratize access to wealth creation opportunities for small businesses, artisans, and low-income earners who have traditionally been marginalized in formal investment systems.

“Collaboration among regulators, financial institutions, fintech companies, and investors is vital for building a resilient, technology-driven market ecosystem,” he said.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s capital market reforms and the adoption of intelligent investing frameworks will enhance investor confidence, increase market transparency, and position the country as a premier investment hub in Africa.

To further bolster investor protection, he added, the SEC is enhancing enforcement mechanisms, launching financial literacy programs, and establishing a dedicated Investor Protection Department.

Agama remarked, “confidence is the cornerstone of a thriving capital market. Each measure we implement, from enforcing disclosures to prosecuting fraud and educating investors contributes to building this confidence.”

Agama emphasised that collaboration and data-sharing between market participants are essential for nurturing globally competitive financial markets in Nigeria.