The gathering served as both a networking platform and a strategic dialogue session focused on market developments, investment priorities and the evolving regulatory and operating landscape within Nigeria’s capital markets. It also reaffirmed the Bank’s long-standing commitment to the Nigerian market and its emphasis on long-term partnerships built on collaboration and trust.
Strengthening Partnerships in a Complex Market
Among the Bank’s representatives at the event were Ayodeji Adelagun, Acting CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited (SCBN); Margaret Harwood-Jones, Global Head, Financing and Securities Services; and Michelle Swanepoel, Regional Head, Africa, Financing & Securities Services.
In his welcome remarks, SCBN Acting CEO Deji Adelagun highlighted the importance of industry collaboration in navigating today’s increasingly interconnected financial environment.
“In an increasingly complex and interconnected market environment, collaboration is not optional — it is essential. By strengthening our partnerships and sharing insights, we position ourselves to deliver greater resilience, efficiency and long-term value for our clients. We remain committed to enabling growth and navigating the evolving landscape together,” he said.
The event also featured remarks from Mrs Bukola Rufai, Director at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), who emphasised the pivotal role custodians and fund managers play in maintaining investor confidence and ensuring market stability.
“Custodians and fund managers play a foundational role in sustaining investor confidence and market stability. The SEC will continue to partner with industry stakeholders to uphold transparency, strengthen compliance and foster responsible innovation that supports long-term growth in the Nigerian capital market,” she noted.
Expanding Post-Trade Services and Market Development
Michelle Swanepoel underscored Nigeria’s evolving capital market landscape, describing it as an “exciting phase of growth” supported by collaboration among regulators and market participants.
She stated that the Bank’s Securities Services offering extends well beyond traditional custody functions, positioning Standard Chartered as a full-fledged post-trade services provider. As the Nigerian market continues to evolve — with greater emphasis on product simplification, diversification, investor education and liquidity enhancement — she expressed optimism about sustained joint growth with clients.
Sefina, Head, Financing & Securities Services, Financial Markets, SCBN, described the exclusive dinner as an opportunity to express appreciation for clients’ continued trust and partnership. She noted that the presence of the SEC enriched discussions around regulatory priorities and market trends, reinforcing the Bank’s role in supporting clients’ growth ambitions and contributing to a resilient, future-ready capital market.
Commitment to Market Infrastructure and Global Standards
Standard Chartered remains one of the leading custodians in Nigeria, recognised for its strong engagement with market infrastructure providers and regulatory authorities. The Bank works closely with exchanges, Central Securities Depositories (CSDs) and other local institutions to anticipate regulatory and structural shifts, often contributing insights during early-stage policy and market-structure development processes.
By leveraging global expertise alongside deep local market knowledge, the Bank aims to align Nigerian market practices with international standards, strengthening confidence among both domestic and foreign investors.
The event concluded with a networking dinner attended by the Bank’s management team and institutional clients. The gathering forms part of Standard Chartered’s broader strategy to maintain close engagement with its institutional client base while supporting the continued growth and sophistication of Nigeria’s capital markets.