SEC
and IOSCO

The Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has maintained a long-standing and active partnership with the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO), a global body of securities regulators dedicated to promoting high standards of regulation and investor protection. This partnership has been instrumental in fostering cross-border cooperation, enhancing market integrity, and promoting the development of a sound and vibrant capital market in Nigeria.

IOSCO: A Global Champion of Securities Regulation

IOSCO, established in 1983, is a recognized standard setter for the securities sector, bringing together securities regulators from over 130 jurisdictions. The organization's objectives include:

• Developing and implementing internationally recognized and consistent standards of securities regulation
• Protecting investors
• Enhancing market integrity and efficiency
• Promoting cross-border cooperation

Nigeria's Enduring Commitment to IOSCO

The SEC joined IOSCO in June 1985, demonstrating Nigeria's early recognition of the importance of international cooperation in securities regulation. Over the years, the SEC has actively participated in IOSCO initiatives, contributing to the development of global regulatory standards and collaborating on cross-border enforcement activities.

Key Milestones in the SEC-IOSCO Partnership

• 1985: Nigeria joins IOSCO, marking the beginning of a strong and enduring partnership.
• 2006: The SEC qualifies as an Appendix 'A' Signatory to the IOSCO MMOU, further strengthening its commitment to international regulatory standards.
• 2013: IOSCO conducts a Detailed Assessment of Implementation of IOSCO Objectives and Principles of Securities Regulation in Nigeria, recognizing the SEC's progress in upholding global regulatory standards.

The SEC-IOSCO Partnership in Action

The SEC's collaboration with IOSCO has yielded tangible benefits for the Nigerian capital market, including:

• Enhanced investor protection: IOSCO's Principles of Securities Regulation have informed the SEC's regulatory framework, ensuring that investors in Nigeria enjoy high levels of protection.
• Improved market transparency: IOSCO's initiatives on market transparency, such as the Disclosure of Cross-Border Transactions, have enhanced market transparency in Nigeria.
• Strengthened cross-border cooperation: The SEC's participation in IOSCO's Multilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MMOUs) has facilitated cross-border cooperation and information sharing, enabling the SEC to effectively address cross-border regulatory issues.

Explore IOSCO's Resources

To learn more about IOSCO's work and its impact on the global securities landscape, we encourage you to visit the IOSCO website:

Through its active engagement with IOSCO, the SEC remains committed to upholding high standards of securities regulation, fostering a vibrant capital market, and protecting the interests of investors in Nigeria.