AFEX, SEC Pledges Commitment to Protecting Investors

Oyebisi Maria

AFEX and the Security Exchange Commission have reaffirmed commitment to protecting investors in the country.

Speaking at the ISOCO world Investors week 2024, the Chief Operating Officer, Oluwafunto Olasemo, said, “As we celebrate ISOCO World Investors Week, we must reflect on the importance of protecting investors, educating market participants, and improving financial literacy across the board.”

According to her, the Securities and Exchange Commission has been instrumental in advancing these causes while acknowledging SEC’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of regulation and governance in the market.

“At AFEX, our vision has always been to create a transparent, efficient, and robust commodities exchange that empowers economies and transforms lives.

“We recognize that none of this is possible without the dedication, insight, and collaboration of key stakeholders like yourselves.

“Your role in shaping Nigeria’s capital markets is invaluable, and today’s event is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering innovation, trust, and growth within the commodities ecosystem,” she said.

She noted that the event will feature a series of enriching activities, including a panel discussion, a fireside chat with leading voice in AFEX, and, notably, the unveiling of AFEX’s maiden comic book.

“This comic book, created with the goal of engaging younger audiences, is a bold initiative to introduce the next generation to the world of commodities investments, financial literacy, and commodities trading. It is our hope that through this medium, we can inspire a future where financial inclusion is not just a goal but a reality.

“We believe that events like this provide a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration. Through conversations that will take place today, we aim to address the challenges and opportunities within our commodities markets, share knowledge, and spark innovative ideas that can transform
the landscape of rural participation and investments in Nigeria.

“As we embark on today’s programme, I encourage each of you to participate actively in the discussions, share your expertise, and network, knowing that the work we do here will ripple across our industry and shape the future of our economy.

Also speaking, the Executive Commissioner, Operations (SEC), Bola Ajomale, said its primary responsibility is protecting investors by equipping them with knowledge, the-know- how to discern between what is a good investment and what is not a good investment.

“We also expose them to areas of safety, how to avoid risks and taking care of their assets. It is critical for us to educate and highlight what is going on in the market to our own individual communities.

“We are looking at Nigeria as a whole and each of the exchanges we have in the country has evolved in their own space with more coming on board in the digital space,” he said.