By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A total of 33 graduate members have undergone an online Automated Trading System (ATS) Certification Training.
The ATS certification programme is conducted for those who desire to become authorized dealing clerks (stockbroker) of the exchange.
The programme is an intensive training organised by the NSE for individuals who have passed the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) qualification examination.
It is part of the mandatory, eligibility and admission procedure for any individual who wishes to become an authorized dealer.
The virtual training was the first to be conducted by the NSE as a result of the restrictions placed on gatherings in Lagos State as part of efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus disease in the country.
The NSE, in its determination to sustain its digital credentials, went ahead to organise the online training scheme and the first set were trained from May 8 – 14, 2020.
The CEO of NSE, Mr Oscar Onyema, while commenting on the transition to virtual training, stated that, “Since the activation of our Business Continuity Plan that saw us transition to remote trading and working, the NSE has remained resolute in its commitment to maintaining business and trading operations.
“The review of the ATS from the pre-existing classroom training to a virtual set up is just one of our efforts in leveraging our digital assets to maintain the flow of information and market activity; deliver on our mandate for capacity building; and continue to enhance stakeholders’ experience in our market.”
Head of Trading Business Division at the NSE, Mr Jude Chiemeka, added that, “The impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has necessitated that we come up with more digital friendly solutions to keep activities in the market moving.
“The volume of sign-ups we received for this virtual ATS training is, therefore, a testament to the appetite of Nigerians to engage in our capital market as operators.
“The NSE is pleased about the keen interest we have seen and will continue to provide learning and trading opportunities that will benefit our stakeholders.”
The ATS training covered the standardised course outline and is being facilitated by subject matter experts within the capital market ecosystem including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), Registrars, Association of Issuing Houses of Nigeria (ASHON), Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), and internal stakeholders within the NSE.
Adedapo Adesanya