Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged support for the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) as it moves to establish a N5 billion endowment fund to strengthen professional training and capacity development in Nigeria’s capital market.

Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance at the weekend, when the Institute’s president and chairman of Council, Dr Fiona Ahimie, led a delegation of principal officers on a courtesy visit.

Ahimie was accompanied by the first and second vice presidents, Dr Akeem Oyewale and Jude Chiemeka, respectively; registrar and chief executive, Ayorinde Adeonipekun; some past presidents; and serving members of Council.

The Governor charged the Institute to deepen capital market participation and intensify financial literacy campaigns to equip more Nigerians with the knowledge to make informed investment decisions.

He noted that although the Nigerian capital market had recorded significant growth in recent years, wider public participation remained essential to unlocking its potential for wealth creation and inclusive economic development.

He observed that many Nigerians remain unfamiliar with investment opportunities beyond their immediate financial needs, stressing the need for public education on savings, investment and wealth creation.

Sanwo-Olu urged the new Council to sustain professionalism, public engagement and capacity development.

Ahimie disclosed that the Institute is collaborating with the Office of the Vice President on an initiative to train 10 million Nigerians in financial literacy and capital market participation, particularly among young Nigerians.

She said the Institute’s 30th Annual Conference, scheduled for November 4 and 5, 2026 in Lagos, would explore strategies for mobilising capital, advancing economic prosperity and strengthening Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

She said stronger collaboration between government and professional bodies is crucial to expanding investment awareness, developing skilled practitioners and deepening the market.

The engagement underscored the role of professional development and financial education in building a more inclusive capital market.