The Capital Market Solicitors’ Association (CMSA) has lauded the recently enacted Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, describing it as a pivotal reform that positions the Nigerian capital market for a robust and innovative future.

The association noted that the new Act, which repealed the 2007 Act, introduced sweeping regulatory reforms designed to expand investor protection, enhance market oversight, and codify the supervision of emerging sectors like digital assets and forex trading.

At a media briefing ahead of its Annual Business Summit (ABS), themed; “The Investment and Securities Act 2025: Innovations and Opportunities in the Nigerian Capital Markets,” CMSA Chairman and Partner at Pentagon Partners Legal Practitioners, Mr. Odiaka Vincent Iweze, described the ISA 2025 as a transformative reform that aligns the capital market with global best practices and positions it for future growth.

“The new Act strengthens legal frameworks, expands investor protection, bolsters regulatory oversight, and introduces wider participation opportunities, especially within the digital assets space,” Iweze stated.

He added that the legislation addresses long-standing issues such as inadequate enforcement mechanisms and oversight, particularly as it relates to forex trading and cryptocurrency operations.

“The ISA 2025 established clear rules, introduced investor education measures, and provided practical tools like whistleblowing and verification platforms to curb fraud and boost confidence in the market,” Iweze explained.

He noted that the Act clarifies the legal status of previously unregulated market players and brings them under the oversight of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), creating new business opportunities for lawyers, investors, and institutions.

The CMSA chairman emphasised that the upcoming summit, scheduled for June 25 at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos State, will facilitate crucial discussions around the Act’s provisions, implementation challenges, and growth opportunities.

“While the Act is comprehensive and forward-looking, its true potential can only be realised through practical application and stakeholder engagement,” Iweze said.

The summit will feature panel discussions, fireside chats, and interactive sessions. Participation, he said, is free but pre-registration is required.

Iweze expressed appreciation for the generous sponsorships from member firms and partners, which have made it possible for the event to be open to all interested participants.

He also mentioned that further sponsorship opportunities are available.

CMSA Secretary, Mabel Okereke, reflecting on last year’s summit discussions on sustainable tools and regulatory clarity, noted that the ISA 2025 provides certainty for evolving markets like commodities and digital assets.

“The legislation codifies procedures for trading in the commodities market, with provisions for warehouse receipts and minerals trading, creating a deeper and more structured market within the sector,” Okereke said.

She also pointed out that the ISA 2025 also introduced whistleblowing provisions and improved systemic risk mitigation measures to prevent market collapses akin to the 2008 financial crisis.

“This Act sets a strong foundation for transparent, efficient, and fair markets,” Okereke said, commending the collaborative efforts of regulators, market operators, and legal practitioners in crafting the legislation.

Adding her perspective, Partner at Duale, Ovia & Alex-Adedipe (DOA) and Vice Chairman of CMSA, Simisola Eyisanmi described the Act as a testament to the sector’s evolving commitment to transparency, efficiency, and investor protection.

“This year’s summit aims to dive deep into the Act’s provisions, engage regulators and operators, and foster discussions on how to actualise the opportunities the Act presents. We are not just celebrating a new law; we are looking at its practical application to achieve sustainable growth,” Eyisanmi said.