NGX, SEC Strengthen Nigeria-China Investment Ties

In a bold stride toward global financial integration, the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are reinforcing Nigeria’s capital market linkages with China. The renewed push was spotlighted at the China-Africa CEO Dialogue held during the 4th China–Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha.

Co-hosted by Choice International Group and NGX Group, the high-level forum attracted African financial regulators, Chinese corporates, and business leaders from both regions, sparking conversations on capital mobility, cross-border investments, and sustainable financing.

Mr. Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director and CEO of NGX Group, described the collaboration as a strategic step towards opening Nigeria’s capital market to Chinese institutions. “We are engaging with the Shanghai and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges to explore pathways for Chinese corporates to raise capital in Nigeria through instruments like bonds, equities, and commercial papers,” he revealed.

According to Mr. Popoola, these instruments offer a hedge against operational and currency risks while creating a channel for foreign investments into key sectors such as ICT, manufacturing, and the automotive industry. He noted, “Financial flows are often the missing link in many China-Africa engagements. We aim to change that by positioning Nigeria as a vital investment hub.”

Director-General of the SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, echoed the sentiment, assuring investors of Nigeria’s readiness to offer a transparent, well-regulated environment. “Our duty goes beyond policy—it is about building trust, enforcing fairness, and reducing uncertainty,” he stated, reiterating SEC’s focus on regulatory integrity.

Chairman of NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, also weighed in, describing the dialogue as a key milestone in establishing Nigeria as a financial gateway to Africa. “Strategic partnerships like these are the cornerstone of Africa’s economic future. Our capital market must play a frontline role in attracting global capital and catalysing development,” he said.

Discussions during the forum emphasised the importance of capital markets not just for investment but also for technology transfer, trade facilitation, and infrastructure development. Participants stressed the need for innovative financial models and cross-border regulatory cooperation to unlock sustainable growth.

The NGX Group and SEC reaffirmed their commitment to leveraging capital market diplomacy as a national development tool, aiming to attract long-term foreign investment and elevate Nigeria’s global economic profile.

As Nigeria intensifies its search for diverse capital sources, the Changsha dialogue highlights a turning point—one that could reshape Nigeria’s financial future and broaden the continent’s role in global investment networks.