Leading capital market institutions in Nigeria have initiated strategic measures to enhance cross-border investments, with a particular focus on the Nigeria-China relationship.
The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have announced that their current activities in China are part of a broader initiative to improve Nigeria’s connectivity to international financial markets and attract new investment.
This commitment was showcased at the China-Africa CEO Dialogue, organised by Choice International Group in partnership with NGX Group, which occurred during the 4th China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha. The event provided a platform for NGX Group, SEC, and other prominent African institutions to engage with Chinese companies, regulators, and financial institutions to explore beneficial partnerships.
Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director of NGX Group Plc, reaffirmed the importance of establishing cross-border capital market partnerships, asserting that these relationships are vital for creating new investment opportunities between Nigeria and China.
He highlighted NGX Group’s collaborations with organisations such as the Shanghai Stock Exchange and Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aimed at facilitating Chinese companies’ access to local capital through bonds, commercial papers, or equity, thereby mitigating currency and operational risks while promoting growth in key sectors like manufacturing, ICT, and automotive.
“Financial flows are often the overlooked aspect in many China-Africa collaborations. By establishing these corridors, we are positioning Nigeria as a key hub for cross-border investments and supporting the country’s economic diversification efforts,” Popoola stated.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of SEC, emphasised Nigeria’s dedication to providing a secure, transparent, and supportive investment environment.
“Our role is not limited to establishing a framework; we also assure investors that, when they come to Nigeria, they will receive fair treatment. Transparency and credibility are paramount for building investor trust. While every business carries inherent risks, our duty as regulators is to minimise those risks and ensure a level playing field,” Agama remarked.
Group Chairman of NGX Group Plc, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, asserted that the strategic partnerships in China reflect NGX Group’s goal of positioning Nigeria as Africa’s investment gateway.
“At NGX Group, we firmly believe that the capital market is essential for unlocking Africa’s potential. Our engagement in China demonstrates our commitment to establishing connections between Nigeria and significant global markets to guarantee long-term prosperity for our stakeholders,” Kwairanga stated.
He concluded that the dialogue highlighted the crucial role of capital markets in facilitating trade, technology transfer, and industrial growth between China and Nigeria.
Both NGX Group and SEC are committed to championing capital market diplomacy as a strategy for fostering sustainable economic development.
