Nigeria’s foremost capital market entities have unveiled strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering cross-border investments, particularly between Nigeria and China.
The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have indicated that their ongoing engagements in China are part of a broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s integration with global financial markets and attract fresh investment opportunities.
This dedication was evident during the China-Africa CEO Dialogue, hosted by Choice International Group in partnership with NGX Group. The event, which took place alongside the 4th China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, saw representatives from NGX Group, SEC, and other prominent African organisations engage with Chinese corporations, regulators, and financial institutions to explore mutually advantageous collaborations.
Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director of NGX Group Plc, emphasised the importance of fostering cross-border capital market partnerships, stating that such collaborations are essential for unlocking new investment pathways between Nigeria and China.
He outlined NGX Group’s interactions with entities like the Shanghai Stock Exchange and Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aimed at enabling Chinese corporations to raise capital locally through bonds, commercial papers, or equity. This approach seeks to alleviate currency and operational risks while fostering growth in vital sectors such as manufacturing, ICT, and automotive.
“Financial flows often represent the missing link in many China-Africa partnerships. By establishing these corridors, we are positioning Nigeria as a hub for cross-border investments, thereby supporting the country’s economic diversification agenda,” Popoola remarked.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of SEC, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to offering a safe, transparent, and conducive investment climate.
“Our role extends beyond providing a regulatory framework; we aim to assure investors that, if they choose Nigeria, they will find justice when needed. Transparency and credibility are essential for building investor confidence. While risk is inherent in every business, our responsibility as regulators is to mitigate those risks and ensure a fair playing field,” Agama stated.
Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group Plc, noted that the strategic engagements in China highlight NGX Group’s ambition to establish Nigeria as Africa’s investment gateway.
“At NGX Group, we believe that the capital market is crucial for unlocking Africa’s potential. Our engagement in China reflects our commitment to forging connections between Nigeria and key global markets to ensure long-term prosperity for our stakeholders,” Kwairanga commented.
He added that the dialogue emphasised the significance of capital markets in facilitating trade, technology transfer, and industrial development between China and Nigeria.
Both NGX Group and SEC remain dedicated to promoting capital market diplomacy as a means of achieving sustainable economic growth.
