As Nigeria joins the world in celebrating International Women’s Day, the Federal Government has called on women to explore the capital market as a powerful tool for wealth creation and financial empowerment.
Speaking in Abuja during the launch of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Podcast, the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, emphasized the need for increased female participation in the financial sector. She highlighted that investing in the capital market could help women secure financial independence and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
“Opening opportunities for women in the capital market creates a pathway to wealth creation. We need more policies, reforms, and frameworks that encourage female participation in the financial sector,” Dr. Uzoka-Anite stated in a speech delivered on behalf of the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Manga.
The Minister acknowledged the unique challenges women face while balancing careers and family responsibilities. However, she noted that women have a natural ability to manage finances and should leverage the capital market to build sustainable wealth.
“Women excel at financial management within households. If they learn how to grow their money through smart investments, they will embrace the opportunity,” she added.
Dr. Uzoka-Anite stressed that empowering women in the capital market requires a combined effort from both individuals and institutions. She urged financial organizations to create more investment opportunities tailored to women’s needs and capabilities.
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Commending the SEC for its innovative approach, she described the launch of the SEC Podcast as timely and essential for financial literacy. She expressed confidence that the podcast would bridge the knowledge gap and encourage more women to participate in the capital market.
Echoing her sentiments, the Director General of SEC, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, stated that the podcast aims to educate Nigerians about the capital market and its benefits, even in remote areas.
“We want every Nigerian, regardless of location, to understand how the capital market works and how they can use it to build wealth,” Dr. Agama said.
Dr. Uzoka-Anite’s call to action marks a significant step in Nigeria’s push for financial inclusion and women’s economic empowerment. With the country working towards a $1 trillion economy, increased female participation in the capital market could be a game-changer for sustainable development and economic transformation.
