Nigerian Exchange Group has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to deepen women’s economic empowerment and promote gender inclusion in Nigeria’s capital market.
The collaboration came to the fore during a strategic visit by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, to NGX Group in Lagos on Tuesday, culminating in a ceremonial closing gong to signal a shared commitment to expanding financial access for women.
Welcoming the minister, NGX Group Chairman, Umaru Kwairanga, commended the ministry’s role in advancing women’s development, stressing that women are pivotal to Nigeria’s economic growth.
“Women are central to Nigeria’s economic progress. As we work toward a more inclusive and resilient economy, the capital market remains a vital platform for expanding access to finance, supporting women-led enterprises, and enabling broader participation in wealth creation,” he said.
Also speaking, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Emomotimi Agama, underscored the need for intentional inclusion of women in the capital market, noting that current participation levels fall short of the country’s potential.
“Behind every successful market are women. For Nigeria’s capital market to reach its full potential, we must be deliberate about empowering women as active participants,” he said.
In her remarks, Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the importance of inclusion in achieving Nigeria’s economic ambitions, pointing out that women remain underrepresented in formal finance despite their significant contributions to productivity.
“The capital market reflects our collective choices—who participates, who has access, and who benefits. Achieving a one-trillion-dollar economy requires the full participation of Nigerian women,” she said.
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Group Managing Director of NGX Group, Temi Popoola, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to building an inclusive market ecosystem through innovation and partnerships that expand access to investment opportunities.
The event drew key stakeholders from both public and private sectors, reinforcing commitments to gender inclusion and sustainable development. Among attendees were Kafilat Ogbara, Lucia Shittu, Tola Akerele, Dere Awosika, Ebisan Akisanya, and Amina Oyagbola.
Others present included the CEO of Nigerian Exchange Ltd., Jude Chiemeka; CEO of NGX Regulation Ltd., Femi Shobanjo; and CEO of Central Securities Clearing System Plc, Shehu Shantali.
The closing gong ceremony underscored a renewed commitment by both parties to deepen collaboration and implement initiatives that will enhance women’s inclusion in the financial system and support Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.
