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Shettima Urges Sound Court Rulings to Bolster Investor Confidence

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigeria’s judiciary to deliver timely and well-informed judgments that will help deepen the capital market and boost investor trust in the economy.

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Speaking at the opening of a two-day judges’ workshop organised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in Abuja, Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Affairs, Dr. Tope Fasua, emphasised that judicial efficiency is crucial to Nigeria’s economic growth.

LIST OF APPLICATIONS FOR REGULARISATION OF AREA COUNCIL LAND DOCUMENTS NULLIFIED/CANCELLED BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF FCT

He warned that delays or inconsistencies in court decisions — especially in cases involving securities, insider trading, or market manipulation — could deter investment and introduce systemic risks.

LIST OF APPLICATIONS FOR REGULARISATION OF AREA COUNCIL LAND DOCUMENTS NULLIFIED/CANCELLED BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF FCT

“The capital market is more than a platform for trading stocks. It’s a vital channel for raising long-term capital, funding infrastructure, scaling SMEs, and supporting innovation,” Shettima said.

He described the market as a key component of President Tinubu’s economic agenda, vital for financial inclusion, industrialisation, and diversification beyond oil.

Stressing the importance of investor confidence, he added: “Investors will only put their money where they trust that their rights are protected and the rules are clear and enforced.”

Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, represented by Justice Stephen Adah, echoed the vice president’s concerns, stating that the judiciary must act as a guardian of economic fairness. She said the capital market, while full of opportunity, also faces risks such as fraud and regulatory manipulation.

“The judiciary must not be a passive referee but an active custodian of economic integrity and commercial justice,” she said.

SEC Director General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, highlighted the significance of the newly enacted Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025. He said the law marks a turning point for the market, providing a stronger legal foundation and boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness.

“This Act is not just legislation; it’s a bold step towards a more transparent and resilient investment environment,” Agama said.

Also speaking, EFCC Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, disclosed that 58 unlicensed investment platforms running pyramid schemes have been prosecuted, with two convictions so far. He stressed the need for judges to keep pace with new trends, especially the complexities of digital assets and virtual currencies.

Olukoyede cited ongoing legal actions against Binance and CBEX as examples, warning that Nigeria’s evolving investment space demands better legal and technical understanding.

The workshop aims to align the judiciary with recent developments in capital market regulation and ensure effective dispute resolution as Nigeria seeks to attract more long-term investment.

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