United Capital Asset Management, a subsidiary of United Capital Plc, one of Africa’s leading investment banking and financial services groups, has held the second edition of its flagship Investment Forum. The event, which took place recently in Lagos, focused on promoting financial literacy and expanding wealth-building opportunities for Nigerians through inclusive capital market investments.
In a statement released on Thursday, the company said the event was themed “Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments: Bridging Nigeria’s Knowledge and Wealth Gap.” The forum brought together policymakers, regulators, market players, and investors to discuss ways of deepening Nigeria’s financial inclusion, especially through improved awareness and access to investment opportunities.
In his opening speech, the Group Chief Executive Officer of United Capital Plc, Mr. Peter Ashade, reminded participants of the main purpose of the forum, which is to create a platform for serious discussions on how the capital market can help ordinary Nigerians build wealth and how the market itself can support sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
“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,” Mr. Ashade said.
He added that although more Nigerians now have access to basic financial services like bank accounts and mobile money, very few participate in the capital market. According to him, this leaves a lot of untapped economic value that can be used to develop the country. He urged regulators, financial operators, and even competitors to work together towards achieving a shared vision of inclusive financial growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
The keynote speaker at the forum was the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama. In his address, Dr. Agama said the issue of financial literacy in Nigeria should not be left to regulators alone. He said it is a national issue that must be taken seriously by all stakeholders.
Dr. Agama spoke about the newly signed Investments and Securities Act 2025 and how the new law aims to make the capital market more transparent, protect investors, and provide better access for people who have traditionally been left out—especially those in the informal sector and rural areas. He said the law includes reforms that will allow more Nigerians to invest with confidence and enjoy the benefits of the market.
Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of United Capital Asset Management, Dr. Odiri Oginni, emphasised the need for practical financial education. She explained that Nigerians need more than just flashy investment products—they need proper understanding of financial principles.
“What people need is the understanding of finance, the understanding of risks, investments, returns, and diversification,” Dr. Oginni said. “For us as capital market operators, we need to go beyond product presentation to give people actual information that would help them manage their finances properly.”
She noted that increasing awareness about savings, risk-taking, and portfolio diversification will encourage more Nigerians, especially youths and those in the informal sector, to participate in the capital market.
United Capital Asset Management is currently one of the largest fund managers in Nigeria, with more than N1 trillion in assets under management. The company offers a wide range of mutual funds and investment products that serve both retail and institutional investors. Through platforms like the Investment Forum, the company aims to not only grow its customer base but also support national economic goals of reducing poverty, improving access to capital, and fostering inclusive financial growth.
The forum also featured panel discussions and breakout sessions where investment experts shared insights on current market trends, personal finance strategies, and how digital technology is transforming the investment landscape in Nigeria.
Participants commended the organisers for hosting such a timely event, especially at a period when inflation and economic uncertainty are making it difficult for many Nigerians to plan their finances or grow their income. They called for more public-private partnerships to expand financial education and ensure that investment opportunities reach all parts of the country.
