In a landmark event for Nigeria’s financial sector, the country successfully hosted the 2025 Africa and Middle East Depositories Association (AMEDA) Conference for the first time in history. The two-day conference, which took place from April 24 to April 25 at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together top financial experts, policymakers, regulators, and innovators from over 20 countries.
The conference, which had the theme “Shaping the Future: Financial Markets & Infrastructures as Catalysts for Transforming Economies,” was organized by the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, Nigeria’s central securities depository. The event attracted high-level participation from countries such as Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates, among others.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Haruna Jalo-Waziri, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CSCS Plc, and Vice President of AMEDA, described the conference as a big moment for Nigeria’s financial market. He stated that a strong and modern financial system is important for building a better economy. Jalo-Waziri also said Nigeria is aiming to become a $1 trillion economy, and to reach this goal, the capital market must be more inclusive, efficient, and technology-driven.
The conference covered many important topics including the use of digital technology in financial markets, new regulatory laws, cross-border trading, and how to make financial systems more resilient. These issues are very important as many African and Middle Eastern countries continue to face economic challenges, but also have huge growth opportunities.
One of the highlights of the event was the speech by Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, who served as the keynote speaker. He urged all AMEDA members and market players to work together more closely and share ideas that can help improve financial systems across the regions. According to him, innovation and teamwork are key to building a powerful and united economic space in Africa and the Middle East.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, the newly appointed Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria, introduced the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025. He explained that the new law gives the SEC wider powers to regulate the capital market and provides a legal structure for digital assets, cryptocurrencies, and derivatives. This move is expected to attract more investors, both local and international, and improve investor confidence in Nigeria’s capital market.
On his part, Mr. Opeyemi George, the Lagos State Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, said the state government is committed to supporting financial market growth through smart infrastructure development. He mentioned the 2025 Lagos State “Budget of Sustainability” which focuses on long-term investment in infrastructure to boost economic activities and attract more private sector investment.
The 2025 AMEDA Conference also gave Nigerian delegates the chance to showcase the country’s growing influence in the financial world. It served as a platform for Nigeria to build stronger partnerships and attract investment from across Africa and the Middle East.
Participants praised the efforts of CSCS Plc and other local organizers for putting together a world-class event that provided rich discussions and practical solutions to real issues. The success of the event also shows that Nigeria has what it takes to host international conferences that bring real value to the economy.
As the financial landscape continues to change, stakeholders at the AMEDA Conference agreed that countries must invest in strong financial market infrastructure, embrace technology, and create better rules that protect investors and promote growth.
In the end, the AMEDA 2025 event was not just about speeches and panel sessions; it was about setting a new direction for financial development in Africa and the Middle East. Nigeria’s role as host and active participant marked a turning point in the country’s journey to becoming a financial hub on the continent
