Nigerian Exchange Group has unveiled digital platform to reach millions of investors, to facilitate Nigeria’s $1tn economy as mandated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Nigerian Exchange has introduced a digital platform aimed at streamlining the investment process.
The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian Exchange Group
Plc, Temi Popoola, disclosed that at a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday.
He added that the platform would integrate several
functionalities, including payment gateways, KYC processes, and brokerage
account management, offering a seamless and paperless experience for users.
“We are excited to introduce a new digital product that can
distribute various services, emphasising the importance of quality UI/UX and
collaboration. I want to appreciate the leadership and support from our
regulator, acknowledging the evolution of our digital market and the
contributions of those who came before us. Our regulator’s deep understanding
of the market and digital assets is a significant advantage for us.
“Currently, investing in Nigeria involves filling out paper
forms and dealing with various challenges.”
Our goal at the Nigerian Stock Exchange is to digitise the
entire process, making it seamless and paperless. This digital transformation
will bring numerous benefits, including improved efficiency and reduced
reconciliation issues,” he remarked.
He added that the organisation was collaborating with the
Securities and Exchange Commission to ensure a seamless platform for new and
existing investors.
“Our new digital platform integrates several functionalities
like payment gateways, KYC processes, and brokerage account management. It is
designed to be user-friendly and customisable, allowing banks to integrate
their payment systems. The platform also facilitates real-time KYC verification
and seamless brokerage account setup for both new and existing investors. It is
not an app but a platform.
“We have been working closely with the Securities and
Exchange Commission and other stakeholders to develop this platform. While we
are still waiting for SEC approval, we are confident in their support and
eventual approval. Our platform aims to ensure compliance with regulatory
requirements while providing a simplified and efficient investment process for
all users,” he noted.
Also, the Director-General of the SEC, Emomotimi Agama,
underscored the organisation’s commitment to supporting initiatives that
enhance transparency, fairness, and efficiency in the financial markets.
“Innovation means doing things that have not been done
before. The challenge lies in creating a summary quickly, but it is essential
to ensure the key details are communicated effectively.
“Stockbrokers play a crucial role in this process, ensuring
that they read and understand the prospectus thoroughly before passing on the
information to clients. It is their responsibility to engage and educate
investors, making sure they understand what they are investing in,” he
declared.
He reassured stakeholders that the SEC remained vigilant
against any violations and would enforce strict adherence to regulatory
standards, adding that the platform must be structured to meet the requirements
of the younger generation.
“In Nigeria, 74 per cent of the population is under 24
years. This demographic requires us to digitise our processes and engage them
through technology they understand, like apps and digital platforms. We must
adapt to their world to bring them into the investment market.
“Our goal is to reach millions, not just a few hundred
investors. Our mission is to achieve a $1tn economy, as mandated by President
Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We all have a role to play in reaching this goal, and with
this new platform, we’re on the right path,” he said.
Applauding the innovation, the Managing Director and Chief
Executive Officer of the Central Securities Clearing System, Haruna
Jalo-Waziri, stated, “We believe this platform will contribute significantly to
the deepening of our market and anticipate a positive impact on the economy.
“The CSCS has consistently been at the forefront of
innovation, and this mentorship alliance reinforces its position as a premier
post-market infrastructure. We look forward to continued collaboration and
progress in achieving our shared goals.”
The Nigerian Exchange had
collaborated with Meristem Securities to launch a USSD platform aimed at
enhancing financial inclusion and expanding access to the capital market.