By Bassey Udo
The Director General of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, has described women as pillars of strength, resilience, and guidance that inspire the success of men in leadership positions.
Agama, who stated this in his remarks during International Women’s Day celebration on Monday organised by the Commission to celebrate women and acknowledge their role in national development, recognised their resilience, hard work, and significant contributions to society and the workplace.
Speaking at the event, Agama said the theme for this year, “Give to Gain,” reflects not just financial gains, but the wealth built through contribution, mentorship, and inclusion.
He commended female members of staff of the Commission for always not waiting for opportunities, but creating them, and building the table at which they now lead.
The DG reaffirmed the Management’s commitment to supporting and empowering women to continue to excel.
“The women at the SEC have given their intellect, resilience, and foresight to navigate economic shifts and regulate with a steady hand. In doing so, they have helped us achieve a market that is more robust, transparent, and inclusive,” he said.
Agama highlighted the philosophy of “Give to Gain” as central to the legacy of women in the commission.
He explained that by sharing expertise, mentoring the next generation, and advocating for inclusive finance, women have strengthened the market and the broader economy.
Specifically, the DG acknowledged the contributions of staff at all levels, including analysts, legal experts, compliance officers, and Executive Commissioners such as Frana Chukwuogor, Hajia Samiya Hassan Usman, and Non-Executive Commissioner Omolola Bridget Oloworaran “Your contribution is the bedrock of our success,” he said.
He noted that women continue to demonstrate transparency, commitment, and professionalism in both their personal lives and their various careers.
Many women, he noted, manage multiple responsibilities as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters, while still making meaningful contributions to the growth of institutions and the country.
Agama emphasised that the remarkable strength, resilience, and determination of women have consistently inspired progress and positive change, not only within workplaces but also across communities
He highlighted that their ability to overcome challenges, lead with integrity, and contribute meaningfully to both professional and social spheres serves as a powerful example for others and fuels growth, innovation, and collective
The DG also acknowledged the personal inspiration he has received from women in his life, particularly his mother, wife, and daughters, whom he described as pillars of strength, resilience, and guidance, whose values and unwavering support have shaped his character and leadership style.
He noted that women continue to demonstrate exceptional transparency, unwavering commitment, and high levels of professionalism not only in their personal lives but also across their diverse careers.
The Director-General stressed that the commission values the contributions of women within the organisation and remains committed to creating an environment that allows them to thrive.
He added that empowering women is essential to building stronger institutions and achieving sustainable development.
“Women have shown remarkable energy, commitment, and professionalism in the workplace,” he said, noting that their impact remains critical to the commission’s success.
The event formed part of activities by the SEC Director General to celebrate women and recognise their contributions across different sectors of society.
In her remarks, Executive Commissioner Legal and Enforcement, SEC, Ms. Frana Chukwuogor emphasised the need for Nigerians especially women to avoid illegal schemes.
She said, “We want to use this opportunity to remind Nigerians not to patronize illegal operators, otherwise known as Ponzi schemes. We are over 400 in this hall, if every one of us took it as a responsibility to report these people, we would be doing our country and ourselves a big favour.
“Watch out and report these schemes, we have various products available in the capital market for investment; Nigerians do not need to patronize these illegal schemes”
Ms. Chukwuogor commended the female members of staff of the Commission on their contribution to capital market development.
Also speaking, Executive Commissioner Operations Mr. Bola Ajomale said women are good at multi-tasking and in the Commission’s determination to have a world class capital market, such skills are needed.
Ajomale commended the female staff of the Commission and urged them to remember they have a duty to mentor those that have been placed under them.
Also speaking at the programme themed “Give to Gain,” Mrs Toyin Alasi a financial advisor and founder/ CEO of MoneyWise International speaks on how financial empowerment requires intentional decisions about how money is earned, saved, and invested.
According to her, many people have basic knowledge about money but often fail to apply that knowledge effectively in managing their personal finances.
She explained that personal finance is not only about knowledge but also about behaviour, habits, and discipline in making financial decisions.
The expert encouraged women to move beyond simply earning income and begin to focus on saving, investing, and building long-term wealth.
In a Presentation, Dr. Chika Anozie, a Physician and Public Health Specialist, enjoined women to avoid stress and go to regular health checks.
She stated that many times, some ailments do not present visible symptoms until it is almost too late.
“Women do a lot both in the home and in their places of work, they need to be very fit to carry out these activities. Take your health seriously, eat healthy and rest well” she stated.
The event formed part of broader efforts by the SEC to promote financial education and encourage women to take active steps toward financial independence and wealth creation.
