SEC, Nasarawa partner to protect investment assets

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Nigeria has ramped up its efforts to promote financial literacy and investor protection, especially in the Nasarawa State capital market. A recent awareness programme in Lafia, Nasarawa State, saw representatives from various institutions, academia, and stakeholders gather to discuss investment opportunities and address fraudulent schemes.

Key participants included the Institute of Capital Market Registrars, Probate Registry, SEC departments, academia, and the National Population Commission.

The event underscored the importance of institutional collaboration in tackling unclaimed investments and improving public understanding of the capital market. SEC Chairman Alhaji Mairiga Katuka visited Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule to express gratitude for the state's support and to discuss deeper collaboration. Katuka emphasized that an informed population is crucial for sound financial decisions and economic growth, noting that the outreach is part of nationwide efforts to improve financial literacy and promote legitimate investment opportunities.

The governor commended the SEC for its regulatory role and acknowledged the importance of state-level collaboration to drive economic development. During the programme, the SEC highlighted the issue of unclaimed dividends and assets, often caused by incomplete records, outdated shareholder information, and probate delays. The commission urged investors to use the enhanced e-Dividend Mandate Management System for direct dividend payments and urged registrars and stakeholders to improve record management.