The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Nigeria has declared its intention to significantly increase its enforcement activities within the capital market throughout the year 2026. This decisive move follows the recent enactment of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, which grants the regulator enhanced authority.
New Powers for a Stronger Market Framework
Dr Emomotimi Agama, the Director-General of the SEC, outlined the commission's regulatory priorities, highlighting the impact of the new legislation. He confirmed that the ISA 2025 has substantially expanded the commission's supervisory and enforcement powers. Agama emphasized that these strengthened capabilities will be deployed rigorously and without bias to tackle a range of market violations.
The focus will be on addressing critical issues that undermine market fairness, including:
- Market abuse and manipulation
- Insider dealing
- Fraudulent investment schemes
- Other forms of misconduct
Commitment to Due Process and Predictable Regulation
While promising firm action, the SEC chief assured stakeholders that all enforcement measures would be guided by due process and the rule of law. He stressed that maintaining predictable and consistent regulation is a cornerstone for building and sustaining trust among domestic and international investors.
"With the enactment of the Investments and Securities Act 2025, the commission’s supervisory and enforcement framework has been strengthened," stated Dr Agama. "In 2026, the commission will continue to apply these powers firmly and impartially."
Broader Goal: Integrity, Efficiency, and Resilience
This enforcement push is not an isolated strategy. According to Agama, it forms an integral part of a broader set of measures designed to fortify the Nigerian capital market. The ultimate objectives are to enhance market integrity, operational efficiency, and overall resilience against shocks.
He concluded by reinforcing the fundamental link between effective oversight and market confidence, asserting that investor faith in the capital market is directly dependent on effective supervision and the consistent application of rules. The SEC's heightened vigilance in 2026 signals a new chapter of stricter compliance for Nigeria's financial markets.
