In a historic first for Nigeria, the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc proudly hosted the 2025 African and Middle East Depositories Association (AMEDA) Conference, bringing together high-level stakeholders to reimagine the future of capital markets across Africa and the Middle East.
The two-day conference, themed “Shaping the Future: Financial Market Infrastructures as Catalysts for Transforming Economies,” served as a critical hub for thought leadership, innovation, and strategic discussions on market infrastructure, inclusivity, and economic growth.
A Shared Vision for Economic Stability and Growth
In a recorded keynote address, Vice President of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima, emphasized the administration’s commitment to financial market reform and development.
“With President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, we are driving robust public-private collaboration, expanding capital market access for MSMEs and start-ups, and financing key projects through instruments like green bonds, social bonds, and sukuk,” Shettima stated.
His message underlined the government’s strategic approach to deepening financial markets and ensuring economic resilience.
AMEDA: Financial Infrastructure as a Tool for Development
AMEDA Chairman, Abdulla Abdin, in his opening remarks, reinforced the central role of financial market infrastructure in economic transformation.
“Infrastructure isn’t just technical—it’s foundational. It drives transparency, efficiency, and regional economic integration,” he explained.
He highlighted AMEDA’s commitment to fostering innovation and inclusive growth through strengthened financial systems.
Nigeria’s Bold Economic Aspirations
Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Vice Chairman of AMEDA and MD/CEO of CSCS, spoke passionately about Nigeria’s drive to grow into a $1 trillion economy, with modern, inclusive, and resilient market infrastructure as a core pillar.
“CSCS is committed to building future-ready systems, empowering investor confidence, and partnering with fintech innovators to transform our financial landscape,” he stated.
Lagos State and SEC Align with Capital Market Vision
Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Commissioner Opeyemi George reaffirmed the state’s vision to make Lagos a top destination for investment and innovation.
“Lagos is open for business—we are creating a thriving, inclusive environment where investment fuels progress and opportunity,” George said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), emphasized the capital market’s evolving role in driving national development.
He also highlighted the significance of the newly signed Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, which expands SEC’s regulatory scope, bolsters investor protection, and introduces frameworks for digital assets and derivatives, aligning Nigeria’s market with global standards.
A Milestone for Nigeria’s Capital Market
Temi Popoola, Chairman of the Board at CSCS, hailed the conference as a pivotal moment:
“AMEDA’s presence in Nigeria is a strong endorsement of our growing influence in the region. It’s both a point of pride and a call to action for deeper cross-border collaboration.”
The conference ended on a high note, fostering meaningful discussions on cross-border investment, regulatory synergy, and market innovation—key drivers for inclusive economic growth across the AMEDA region.
Gratitude and the Road Ahead
CSCS Plc expressed deep appreciation to its sponsors—including Bamboo, CMA, Zenith Bank, NGX Group, Afrexim Bank, Chapel Hill Denham, TCS Bancs, FMDQ, Stanbic IBTC, and many others—whose support helped realize this landmark event.
“The AMEDA 2025 Conference is just the beginning. Together with partners across Africa and the Middle East, we’re laying the groundwork for resilient infrastructure and shared prosperity,” CSCS concluded.
As the curtains fall on the 2025 edition, stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged, share insights, and pursue partnerships that will shape the financial markets of tomorrow.
