Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has committed to backing the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers’ (CIS) efforts to create a ₦5 billion endowment fund. The fund aims to enhance professional training and build expertise within Nigeria’s capital market sector.
During a meeting at Lagos House in Ikeja on October 23, 2026, Sanwo-Olu made this pledge after receiving CIS president Fiona Ahimie and other institute leaders. Ahimie, who also serves as council chairman, led the delegation.
The governor urged the CIS to expand financial education programs and motivate more citizens to engage with the capital market.
While Nigeria’s capital market has seen notable expansion over recent years, Sanwo-Olu stressed that broader participation is necessary. This would enable the market to better channel domestic savings and contribute to economic growth, he noted.
He pointed out that many Nigerians lack awareness of investment possibilities beyond addressing short-term financial requirements. The governor highlighted the need for households to learn about saving strategies, investment principles, and building long-term financial security.
Sanwo-Olu’s administration stands ready to assist programs that boost financial literacy and develop the specialized skills needed to strengthen the capital market.
Ahimie revealed that the CIS is partnering with the Vice President’s Office on an initiative designed to train 10 million Nigerians in financial literacy and capital market participation. The program seeks to improve public understanding of investment opportunities and encourage wider participation, particularly among young Nigerians.
Ahimie said stronger collaboration between government and professional institutions was essential to expanding investment awareness, developing skilled practitioners and deepening the capital market.
The discussions took place before the CIS’s 30th Annual Conference, set for November 4-5 in Lagos. The event will explore approaches to capital mobilization, economic advancement, and enhancing Nigeria’s position in the global marketplace.
Conference attendees will analyze how capital markets and financial professionals can support investment growth, economic development, and Nigeria’s international competitiveness.
Sanwo-Olu congratulated Ahimie on becoming the first female president of the institute, calling her appointment a landmark achievement. He urged the new council to sustain the Institute’s record in professionalism, public engagement and capacity development.
