ABUJA, Nigeria — The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has intensified efforts to assist Nigerians in recovering unclaimed dividends, inherited investments and other outstanding capital market assets through a newly introduced investor clinic aimed at improving investor protection and financial inclusion.
The Commission said the initiative is designed to provide investors and beneficiaries with direct guidance on recovering unclaimed funds while addressing common challenges associated with documentation, probate procedures and ownership verification. The investor clinic also seeks to improve public awareness of the processes involved in reclaiming dormant investments.
According to the SEC, many investors and beneficiaries remain unable to access legitimate investments because of incomplete records, changes in personal information, inadequate documentation or difficulties encountered during the administration of deceased investors’ estates. The Commission noted that simplifying these processes will help restore confidence in the capital market.
Officials explained that the clinic offers investors an opportunity to engage directly with regulators and other capital market stakeholders to resolve issues relating to unclaimed dividends, share transfers, inheritance claims and investor account updates. Participants will also receive information on the requirements for regularising investment records.
The SEC stated that resolving probate-related challenges remains a priority, as inherited investments often remain inaccessible due to legal and administrative delays. The Commission encouraged beneficiaries to obtain the necessary legal documents and work with authorised market operators to facilitate the transfer of ownership.
The initiative forms part of broader regulatory efforts to strengthen investor protection, improve transparency and encourage greater participation in Nigeria’s capital market. The Commission believes that ensuring investors can easily recover their assets will enhance public confidence and promote long-term investment.
Market analysts have welcomed the initiative, noting that unclaimed dividends and dormant investment accounts have remained a significant issue within Nigeria’s capital market for many years. They argue that increased public education, improved record management and greater use of electronic dividend payment systems will help reduce the accumulation of unclaimed funds.
The SEC urged investors to keep their personal and banking information up to date with registrars and licensed capital market operators to minimise future difficulties in accessing their investments. It also advised families to properly document investment assets as part of estate planning to simplify inheritance procedures.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting investors’ interests and strengthening the integrity of Nigeria’s capital market. It expressed confidence that continued engagement with investors, registrars and other stakeholders would improve the recovery of unclaimed funds while supporting a more efficient and inclusive investment environment.
