By Olufemi Yoloye

I vividly remember my first investment experience. It was 2008, and I was concluding my SIWES program in one of the leading Oil & Gas companies.  Armed with three months’ salary and a burning desire to grow my wealth, I walked into the imposing headquarters of a leading stockbroking firm in Abuja. The marble floors, suited executives, and hushed tones immediately made me feel like I was intruding on a private club.

After waiting for nearly two hours, I was finally ushered into a wood-panelled office where a broker, barely looking up from his newspaper, asked for my minimum investment of ₦500,000 – equivalent to about $3,700 at the time. When I explained I only had ₦19,000, he dismissed me with a wave of his hand, suggesting I “come back when I was serious about investing.” That day, I learned that wealth creation wasn’t just about having money; it was about having access to the right networks, information, and platforms.

Two decades later, the investment landscape has undergone a seismic shift. The digital revolution that transformed how we communicate, shop, and work has finally reached Nigeria’s capital markets. Today, a fresh graduate in Ibadan can open an investment account from her phone, buy shares of blue-chip companies with as little as ₦100, and access the same real-time market data that was once the exclusive preserve of institutional investors.

The Digital Advantage: Real-Time Democracy

Digital investment platforms have fundamentally democratised three critical aspects of wealth creation: access, information, and cost. In the past, investing often meant physically visiting a stockbroking office during business hours. Today, digital platforms operate round the clock, offering unprecedented flexibility. Where investors once waited for next-day newspaper updates or quarterly statements, real-time data now delivers market insights instantly, placing decision-making power directly in the hands of everyday users.

Consider the transformation in information access. In the pre-digital era, research reports were expensive, exclusive documents shared only among high-net-worth clients. Today, algorithmic analysis, automated portfolio recommendations, and comprehensive market research are standard features on most investment apps. The playing field has levelled in ways that would have been unimaginable just a decade ago.

The convenience factor cannot be overstated. Digital platforms have eliminated the intimidation factor that kept many potential investors away from capital markets. Users can now learn about investing through gamified experiences, practice with virtual portfolios, and gradually build confidence before committing real money. This educational approach addresses one of Nigeria’s most persistent challenges: the knowledge gap that historically drove people toward riskier, informal investment schemes.

Cost efficiency represents another revolutionary change. Traditional wealth management services typically required minimum investments of millions of naira and charged hefty fees. Digital platforms have shattered these barriers, allowing fractional ownership of expensive assets and charging minimal fees through automated processes. Commercial paper, government bonds, and equity funds that were once accessible only to institutional investors are now within reach of the average Nigerian.

The Friction Points: Where We Still Fall Short

Despite these advances, significant challenges continue to hinder widespread adoption of digital investment tools in Nigeria. The statistics are sobering: despite a population exceeding 200 million, fewer than 1% of Nigerians participate in collective investment schemes like mutual funds. This represents not just a missed opportunity, but a fundamental failure to create an inclusive financial ecosystem.

The first major friction point is fragmentation. The current landscape requires users to juggle multiple applications for different investment needs. Someone might use one app for stock trading, another for mutual funds, a third for fixed deposits, and yet another for insurance. This scattered approach creates confusion, increases transaction costs, and ultimately discourages participation. The cognitive load of managing multiple platforms, each with its own interface and requirements, can be overwhelming for new investors.

Payment infrastructure remains another significant barrier. While mobile apps have revolutionized basic financial services, the integration between payment systems and investment platforms often lacks seamlessness. Users frequently encounter failed transactions, delayed settlements, and complex reconciliation processes that erode confidence in digital investing. 

Low financial literacy continues to plague the sector. Consider this: the total size of Nigeria’s public mutual fund industry is just under ₦6 trillion, with fewer than 900,000 unit holders – in a country of over 200 million people. In contrast, over ₦1.3 trillion was recently lost to a single high-profile Ponzi scheme. This stark contrast highlights the scale of financial literacy and trust challenges we still face. It’s not just a trust gap – it’s a trillion-naira opportunity cost. While digital platforms have made information more accessible, they haven’t necessarily made it more comprehensible. Many apps overwhelm users with technical jargon, complex charts, and investment options without adequate explanation. The result is that potential investors either avoid the platforms entirely or make uninformed decisions that lead to losses and further discourage participation.

Trust and security concerns compound these challenges. High-profile cases of fintech failures, unauthorized transactions, and data breaches have made many Nigerians wary of digital financial services. The nascent regulatory frameworks for digital investment platforms create additional uncertainty. Users want assurance that their funds are protected, their data is secure, and they have recourse if something goes wrong.

Cultural factors also play a role. Many Nigerians still prefer the human interaction and perceived security of traditional banking relationships. The concept of “digital-first” investing conflicts with established patterns of financial behaviour, particularly among older demographics who control significant portions of investible assets.

The Access More Solution: Where Trust Meets Seamless Integration

This is where Access More represents a paradigm shift in how Nigerians can approach wealth creation. Rather than asking users to manage multiple platforms and providers, Access More offers a unified ecosystem for wealth creation. Its greatest strength? Deep integration within Access Bank’s secure and regulated infrastructure.

In financial services, trust isn’t a nice-to-have benefit. It’s the bedrock of all innovation. When users know their investments are backed by a regulated, established financial institution with decades of operational history, they can focus on building wealth instead of worrying about platform failures.

From a single interface, users can access a wide range of investment options – from stocks and bonds to mutual funds, fixed deposits, treasury bills, and even insurance products. This eliminates the complexity of managing multiple relationships and provides a cohesive view of one’s entire financial portfolio. The platform’s unified approach means users can easily move funds between different investment vehicles as their needs and market conditions change.

The payment integration is seamless because it’s built on Access Bank’s robust banking infrastructure. Users can fund their investments directly from their bank accounts, and receive real-time updates on their portfolio performance. The friction that typically accompanies cross-platform transactions is eliminated, making it easier for users to maintain consistent investment habits.

The security framework is enterprise-grade, leveraging Access Bank’s existing cybersecurity infrastructure and regulatory compliance systems. Users benefit from the same security standards that protect institutional banking relationships, including multi-factor authentication, encryption, and fraud detection and prevention. This addresses one of the primary concerns that prevent the adoption of standalone fintech solutions.

Perhaps most importantly, while the platform is designed for digital-first interaction, users can access relationship managers, investment advisors, and customer service representatives when they need personalized assistance. This hybrid approach combines the efficiency of digital tools with the reassurance of human expertise.

Building Tomorrow’s Wealth Creators

The democratisation of wealth creation through digital tools represents more than a technological advancement; it’s a fundamental shift toward financial inclusion. Nigeria’s demographic dividend – with 62% of the population under 24 years old – creates an unprecedented opportunity to build a generation of investors who view capital market participation as normal and accessible.

Digital platforms like Access More are not just making investing easier; they’re reshaping the very concept of who can be an investor. The young entrepreneur in Kano, the teacher in Enugu, and the civil servant in Abuja now have access to the same investment opportunities and information that were once available only to the wealthy elite in Lagos and Abuja.

The key to unlocking this potential lies in creating platforms that are not just digital, but comprehensive, trusted, and integrated. The future of wealth creation in Nigeria will be built by those who can provide holistic financial solutions within secure, regulated environments. Access More represents this future – where technology serves not just to digitize existing processes, but to fundamentally expand access to wealth-building opportunities.

As we move forward, the question isn’t whether digital tools will democratise wealth creation, but how quickly we can scale these solutions to reach Nigeria’s vast population of potential investors. The infrastructure is in place, the technology is proven, and the opportunity is immense. What remains is the execution – and the commitment to building platforms that truly serve the needs of everyday Nigerians.

The boy who was turned away from that stockbroking office in 2003 would find a very different landscape today. More importantly, his children will inherit a financial system where wealth creation is accessible, transparent, and available to all. That transformation is not just good for individual investors – it’s essential for Nigeria’s economic future.

Olufemi Yoloye is the CEO of Coronation Wealth and a champion of financial inclusion in Nigeria’s capital markets

By Victor Benjamin

For years, a pervasive sense of disillusionment has shadowed the vibrant spirit of Nigeria. Eroding trust in governance, fueled by misinformation and a disconnect between policy and public understanding, has cast a long shadow over national progress. However, a significant shift is underway, spearheaded by the National Orientation Agency (NOA). Under the astute leadership of Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, NOA is actively working to mend these fractures, acting as a crucial bridge between government aspirations and the people’s commitment. This vital mission aligns seamlessly with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which profoundly recognizes that the success of any government policy ultimately hinges on the psychological and emotional investment of its citizens.

The Tinubu government isn’t merely observing NOA’s efforts; it’s actively championing them. The administration understands that Nigeria’s journey towards prosperity isn’t solely about economic reforms or administrative directives. It’s fundamentally about fostering a collective embrace of national values and civic duties by every Nigerian. This holistic approach forms the bedrock of a renewed national consciousness, aiming to ignite a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the country’s destiny.

A cornerstone of this ambitious agenda is the forthcoming National Values Charter, an initiative poised to redefine the relationship between the government and its citizens. Expected to be formally unveiled by President Bola Tinubu himself, this Charter is designed as a foundational social contract. It will meticulously articulate the responsibilities of both the government and its citizens in the arduous yet rewarding task of nation-building.

The Charter will enshrine the “Nigerian Promise”—the government’s unwavering commitment to core principles such as equality, democracy, entrepreneurship, peace, inclusivity, freedom, and meritocracy. This promise outlines the vision for a just and equitable society where opportunities abound for all. Complementing this, the Charter will also introduce a comprehensive “Citizen’s Code.” This code will serve as a clarion call to all Nigerians, urging them to embrace fundamental virtues like discipline, duty of care, tolerance, ethical leadership, accountability, environmental awareness, and resilience. By clearly defining both rights and responsibilities, this comprehensive approach aims to cultivate a deeper sense of belonging and dignity among Nigerians, fostering a citizenry that is not only aware of its entitlements but also deeply committed to its obligations.

In direct support of President Tinubu’s audacious economic reforms and the overarching “Renewed Hope Agenda,” NOA has rolled out several impactful initiatives, designed to demystify complex policies and showcase tangible progress.

One such crucial initiative is The Explainer. Launched in early 2024, this weekly policy-focused publication serves as an invaluable tool for simplifying complex economic shifts. It breaks down intricate topics such as the fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification, translating economic jargon into accessible language. The Explainer illuminates how these market-driven reforms are strategically designed to stimulate national productivity, unlock doors for private investment, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness. It clarifies the potential long-term benefits for ordinary Nigerians, including job creation, increased investor confidence, and improved public services. Crucially, the publication also proactively addresses public concerns and immediate challenges, countering the pervasive tide of misinformation and building a much-needed bridge of understanding between the government and its citizens.

Beyond explanation, NOA is diligently working to showcase tangible progress and flip the narrative of cynicism that often plagues public discourse. The agency actively promotes positive stories of ordinary Nigerians who are directly benefiting from recent reforms. This includes heartwarming examples such as students accessing loans from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, a critical initiative that restores hope and dignity to countless families striving for educational advancement. It also highlights vehicle owners successfully transitioning to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as a more affordable and sustainable energy source, and small business owners securing vital loans from the Bank of Industry to fuel their entrepreneurial dreams. NOA emphasizes consistent and transparent communication to counter negativity, demonstrating that “Hope Renewed” is not merely a slogan but is backed by concrete results, including vital improved infrastructure and a commitment to transparent governance through the discontinuation of opaque oil subsidy regimes.

NOA’s efforts extend far beyond direct policy explanations. The agency employs a wide and innovative array of channels to instill a profound sense of ownership and responsibility within the Nigerian populace.

In the digital realm, NOA leverages cutting-edge tools to enhance citizen engagement. The Mobiliser app, for instance, incorporates a vital “Say Something” feature that enables anonymous crime reporting, empowering citizens to contribute to public safety without fear. Furthermore, CLHEEAN, an innovative AI platform, provides real-time, accurate information on critical national issues, notably in local languages, making vital data accessible to a broader audience. CLHEEAN also facilitates anonymous reporting of criminal activities, reinforcing the commitment to a safer society. An interactive, AI-powered website with intelligent chat assistants and an AI engine dubbed “The Curator” further engages citizens, addressing their policy questions and providing access to national data, fostering an informed and participatory citizenry.

Complementing its digital outreach, NOA conducts extensive on-the-ground sensitisation campaigns nationwide. Dedicated NOA teams traverse the country, engaging communities on diverse issues ranging from human rights and tax reform to crucial security awareness and flood prevention. These campaigns utilize dynamic approaches such as roadshows, community forums, and interactive school sessions, ensuring that essential messages resonate and reach every segment of society, from bustling urban centers to remote rural communities.

Strategic partnerships form another critical pillar of NOA’s multi-faceted approach. The agency actively collaborates with the education sector to embed citizenship studies directly into the school curriculum, aiming to instill national values and civic pride in children from a tender age. This foundational approach seeks to mold future generations into responsible and patriotic citizens. NOA also partners with the Voice of Nigeria (VON) to combat the proliferation of misinformation and promote authentic Nigerian narratives, safeguarding the integrity of public discourse. Furthermore, a crucial partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) facilitates nationwide campaigns against cybercrime, promoting financial literacy and ethical entrepreneurship, particularly among vulnerable youth who are often susceptible to such illicit activities.

Through these comprehensive and multi-faceted approaches, the National Orientation Agency is not just informing Nigerians; it is striving to ensure they are emotionally and intellectually invested in the country’s growth. By fostering a culture of excellence, patriotism, and civic responsibility, NOA is fundamentally transforming how the government communicates with its people. Its ultimate aspiration is to build a just, united, and value-driven Nigeria—a nation built on shared purpose, collective agreement, and a renewed sense of hope.

Victor Benjamin is the West/South South Director of YP4T

By Concerned Members of PENGASSAN

Dear Comrade Festus Osifo,

It is with great concern, deep disappointment, and an unshakable sense of duty to over 523 members of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) Branch, that we write to call the attention of the National Leadership of our great union to the continued assault on principles, transparency, and constitutional order within our Union—which has clearly infringed on the right of members to have a union that respects members’ viewpoints on those who will stand as their elected representatives.

We know our great union stands for justice and fairness to all members. But the recent imposition of an illegal Caretaker Committee (CTC) on our Branch without due process, consultation, or respect for the PENGASSAN Constitution is not just a disregard for our collective intelligence—it is a blatant subversion of the laws and values upon which PENGASSAN was built. As we know, the vision of our great union is to be the most influential trade union by providing excellent services to its members, building strong relationships with social partners and stakeholders, and positively influencing national decisions.

As a reminder, Comrade President, our Branch’s 3-year PENGASSAN tenure expired on May 27, 2025. In line with  our constitutional provisions and  best practices, a Branch Congress was duly convened on June 14, 2025, where a valid Electoral Committee (ELECO) was constituted to oversee elections. However, rather than supporting this transparent process, national leadership chose to unilaterally and undemocratically impose a Caretaker Committee chaired by your known associate, Comrade Tony Iziogba—a man with no mandate from the Branch Congress and no legitimacy under our Constitution.

“Your siding with illegal actions are in gross violation of the PENGASSAN constitutional provisions of : Rule 20.1 states clearly that elected officers hold office for a term of three years. Nowhere in this rule is it provided that a Caretaker Committee shall take over automatically after tenure expiration. Rule 31.4 provides that a Caretaker Committee may only be constituted after the dissolution of a BECOM through disciplinary procedures—not simply due to tenure expiration. Rule 32.7 mandates that an Ethical Practices, Grievance and Disciplinary Committee (EGDC) at the Branch level must consist of two elected BECOM members and three nominated members, chaired by the Branch IRO. None of these conditions were met in your Caretaker Committee setup.”

Schedules 3.3 and 3.5 clearly outline the process for resolving Branch disputes through the CWC and NEC—not by unilateral directives or external imposition. Rule 3.7, which speaks of inspiring discipline and professionalism, has been repeatedly ignored in this ongoing crisis.”

The issue we raise to the leadership of the Union is the even more troubling fact that a disciplinary letter was issued to comrades who dared to question the legitimacy of this illegal process—a direct attempt to silence dissent and criminalize free expression within a union that should be a bastion of democracy. This is not the first time our Branch has faced anti-democratic practices. When the NMDPRA Branch was first formed three years ago, it began not with an election but with an imposed caretaker committee. That committee handpicked successors without consulting members. Now, history is repeating itself. Comrade Ayo was imposed then. Now, Comrade Tony is being imposed again.

We concerned that members will not succumb to any intimidation or to recycling the same faces, ideas, and loyalties while ignoring the democratic rights of over 523 unionized staff. We are not asking for much. We simply demand what is just, constitutional, and democratic.

We, the concerned members, demand the reinstatement of the ELECO constituted at the June 14 Congress. We call for a hybrid Branch election that allows inclusive participation—especially for members across Nigeria who have never had a voice in the leadership of the Branch.

We, the concerned members, urge respect for the provisions of the 2022 PENGASSAN Constitution. End all harassment, intimidation, and victimization of members who speak out. Stop using national offices to reward loyalty and suppress dissent. And, most urgently, allow the will of the people—the 2/3 majority of Congress—to determine their own leadership.

We, the Concerned Members of PENGASSAN, know the Union is not your personal property, Comrade President. The Constitution is not subject to your discretion. And the voice of the Congress cannot be replaced by political convenience or backroom arrangements. In a nation grappling with democratic challenges, we had hoped our Union would set the example. Sadly, under your leadership, it is instead mimicking the worst of political suppression, godfatherism, and impunity.

The time for appeasement has passed. The time for silence has ended. The time for constitutional order, justice, and democracy is now. We will not relent. We will not be silenced. And we will never allow our Union to descend into a dictatorship of convenience.

In solidarity with hope for a better PENGASSAN, we stand for an end to dictatorship perpetrated by National leadership. Let’s NMDPRA Breathe.”