Nigeria’s capital market must move beyond simply creating wealth and focus on building prosperity that is inclusive, sustainable, and supported by strong governance structures, according to the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Temi Popoola.
Speaking at the 2026 Nairametrics Capital Market Awards held in Lagos, Popoola said the future strength of Nigeria’s economy would not be measured only by the amount of wealth generated but also by how that wealth is created, shared, and maintained over time.
Addressing investors, regulators, business leaders, and market operators, he described the capital market as an important platform for directing funds into productive sectors of the economy. According to him, the market helps businesses grow, encourages innovation, creates jobs, and supports long-term economic development.
Popoola noted that discussions around wealth creation should now focus on broader questions. He said attention should be given to how wealth is generated, who benefits from it, and the lasting impact it has on society.
He explained that global investors are increasingly choosing markets that demonstrate transparency, accountability, and strong governance. In today’s investment environment, he said, having economic potential alone is no longer enough to attract capital. Investors want confidence in institutions and trust in the integrity of the market.
The NGX chief stressed the need for businesses, investors, and regulators to embrace responsible wealth creation by prioritizing long-term value instead of short-term profits. He added that accountability, transparency, and sound planning are essential for building sustainable economic growth.
Popoola also emphasized the importance of inclusion in the financial system. According to him, the benefits of market growth can only be fully realized when investment opportunities are available to people from different backgrounds, locations, age groups, and genders.
One of the positive developments in Nigeria’s capital market, he said, is the increasing participation of retail investors. He attributed this growth to improved financial education and advances in digital technology.
He highlighted the success of NGX Invest, the Exchange’s digital platform for primary market offerings. During the banking sector recapitalization exercise, the platform helped companies raise more than N2.8 trillion and attracted over two million retail investors in 2025.
According to Popoola, the achievement demonstrated how technology can make investment opportunities more accessible and allow more Nigerians to participate in wealth creation.
He also pointed out that sustainability is becoming a major factor in investment decisions worldwide. Investors now pay attention not only to financial performance but also to environmental responsibility, governance practices, and social impact.
While expressing confidence in Nigeria’s future, Popoola cited the country’s youthful population, entrepreneurial spirit, and growing innovation ecosystem as major strengths. However, he stressed that stronger institutions, policy consistency, and increased investor confidence are necessary to unlock the country’s full potential.
He further called for stronger cooperation between government and private sector stakeholders to improve market infrastructure and speed up economic transformation.
Earlier at the event, Nairametrics Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, said the awards were created to recognize excellence, innovation, and resilience within Nigeria’s capital market ecosystem.
He noted that despite economic challenges, exchange-rate volatility, and global uncertainty, the Nigerian capital market had remained resilient. According to him, improved corporate earnings, increased retail participation, greater transparency, and innovative financial products have all contributed to the market’s progress.
The awards ceremony also celebrated outstanding organizations across the market. MTN Nigeria emerged as Company of the Year, while Zenith Bank won Tier-One Bank of the Year. Other major winners included Seplat Energy, Wema Bank, AIICO Insurance, Guinness Nigeria, Lafarge Africa, Transcorp Group, the Nigerian Exchange Limited, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and PENCOM.
