SEC Boss Praises Women and Warns Nigerians Against Ponzi Schemes
By Patience Ikpeme
The Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has stated that women are the main reason the Commission and the Nigerian stock market continue to grow.
Speaking in Abuja during the celebration of International Women’s Day, which featured the theme “Give to Gain,” Dr. Agama pointed out that women in the organization have shown great leadership by creating their own opportunities rather than waiting for others to give them a chance.
“Our women have not waited for a seat at the table; they have built the table,” the SEC boss said while addressing staff. He noted that from the young analysts to the top legal experts and high-ranking Executive Commissioners, the work done by women is the very foundation of everything the Commission has achieved. Dr. Agama explained that the intelligence and hard work of these women have helped the country manage difficult economic times and keep the market steady.
Adding to the celebration, the Executive Commissioner for Legal and Enforcement, Ms. Frana Chukwuogor, expressed her excitement over the hidden impact women are making within the institution. “All the faces in this room, we see you, we know you and we celebrate you,” she said, noting the resilience and value they bring to their daily tasks. She urged the women to make a determination to give back to society in a way that matches the support they receive from others.
Ms. Chukwuogor also used the event to send a strong warning to Nigerians regarding illegal investment setups. She reminded the public not to patronize illegal operators, popularly known as Ponzi schemes, noting that there are many legitimate products available in the capital market for investment. She told the staff that if everyone took the responsibility to watch out for and report these schemes, they would be doing the country a huge favor.
The Executive Commissioner for Operations, Mr. Bola Ajomale, mentioned that the SEC is deliberate about encouraging women because of their unique ability to handle many tasks at once. He stated that such skills are necessary to build a world-class capital market. Mr. Ajomale encouraged female staff to be resourceful and to remember their duty to mentor those working under them.
Dr. Agama promised that the Commission will keep supporting policies that give women equal chances to lead and succeed in the financial sector. He encouraged all staff to embrace the spirit of “Give to Gain” every day by supporting the women around them to ensure the capital market truly reflects the society it serves.
