By Chioma Obinagwam
United Capital Asset Management, a key division of United Capital Plc, a leading Pan-African financial services and investment banking group, hosted its second Investment Forum on June 25, 2025, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. Themed “Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments: Bridging Nigeria’s Knowledge and Wealth Gap,” the forum gathered capital market regulators, digital media innovators, financial literacy advocates, and notable figures to discuss how inclusive investments can foster sustainable economic progress.
Confiance News gathered from a statement issued by the company.
The event commenced with remarks from Peter Ashade, Group CEO of United Capital Plc, who reiterated the organization’s commitment to financial inclusion and the vision behind the forum. He stated: “When we launched the inaugural edition, our goal was simple: to create space for meaningful engagement on the role of the capital market in building wealth and driving inclusive economic growth. Today, that goal remains the same, but the urgency is even greater.” Ashade highlighted the persistently low participation in Nigeria’s capital markets, pointing to untapped economic opportunities and calling for collaboration among stakeholders, including regulators and competitors, to promote inclusion, innovation, and sustainable market growth.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), delivered a compelling keynote address, emphasizing that addressing Nigeria’s financial literacy gap is a national priority beyond mere regulation. In a fireside chat with Ashade, Agama discussed the newly enacted Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, which aims to strengthen market integrity, enhance investor protections, and expand access to capital market opportunities, particularly for underserved communities. He stressed the need for simplified channels to integrate Nigerians, especially those in the informal sector, into the capital market ecosystem.
Both leaders underscored the critical role of credible media and digital influencers in combating misinformation, preventing Ponzi schemes, and promoting secure, long-term investment options, agreeing that financial inclusion hinges on empowering Nigerians with the knowledge and confidence to build wealth.
The forum’s second half focused on practical strategies for fostering an inclusive investment ecosystem. Dr. Odiri Oginni, MD/CEO of United Capital Asset Management, opened the session with a call to address Nigeria’s investment knowledge gap, supported by insights from Foyinsolami Akinjayeju, CEO of EFInA. Oginni remarked: “What people need is the understanding of finance – the understanding of risks, investments, returns and diversification. For us as capital market operators, we need to go beyond product presentation, but to give people actual information that would help them manage their finances properly.”
A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring thought leaders such as Uche Uzoebo (CEO, SANEF), Abimbola Babasola (representing Jude Chiemeka, CEO, Nigerian Exchange Ltd), Ugodre Obi-Chukwu (Founder, Nairametrics), Oler Oladele (Founder, Money Wit Club), and Sola Adesakin (Founder, Smart Stewards). They explored strategies to build financial trust in underserved communities, tailor investment products to consumer needs, leverage digital platforms, and align policies for greater capital market inclusivity and impact.
The forum underscored United Capital Asset Management’s pivotal role in shaping national conversations on economic development. Managing over ₦1 trillion in assets and offering 10 mutual funds, the firm continues to innovate with accessible investment solutions, including the recently introduced Children Investment Fund, complementing its diverse portfolio designed for women, ethical investors, impact-focused individuals, and everyday Nigerians seeking secure wealth-building opportunities.
Leave a comment