The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has said it will intensify enforcement actions in 2026 following the enactment of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 to strengthen investor protection and market integrity.
The SEC Director-General, Emomotimi Agama, said in a statement on Sunday, while outlining the Commission’s regulatory priorities.
He noted that the ISA 2025 has expanded the SEC’s supervisory and enforcement powers, stressing that the Commission would apply its powers “firmly and impartially” to address market abuse, insider dealing, fraudulent investment schemes, and other forms of misconduct in the capital market.
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“With the enactment of the Investments and Securities Act 2025, the Commission’s supervisory and enforcement framework has been strengthened.
“In 2026, the Commission will continue to apply these powers firmly and impartially,” Agama said.
He assured the enforcement actions will be guided by due process and the rule of law, adding that predictable and consistent regulation remains critical to building trust among investors.
He said the push forms part of broader measures to strengthen market integrity, efficiency, and resilience, adding that confidence in the capital market depends on effective supervision and the consistent application of rules.
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He hinted that the Commission will tighten its regulatory efficiency through digitalisation, including streamlined approvals, automated filings, and improved disclosure processes.
“These measures are intended to reduce unnecessary frictions, improve regulatory responsiveness, and enhance transparency across the market,” Agama said.
Agama hinted further that the SEC will introduce enhanced disclosure standards, including environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting, alongside a structured recapitalisation and governance review of market intermediaries to ensure financial resilience and sound risk management.
“We will regulate not to stifle, but to catalyse. We will enforce not to punish, but to protect and build trust,” Agama said.
Alex is a business journalist cum data enthusiast with the Pinnacle Daily. He can be reached via ealex@thepinnacleng.com, @ehime_alex on X
