Children’s Day: SEC reports N8.6trn investments at Assertium Fair

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has disclosed that Nigeria’s collective investment and mutual funds targeted at children have grown to N8.6 trillion and renewed calls for improved investment literacy among the nation’s youth.

SEC’s Director General, Emomotimi Agama, made this known on Tuesday during the 2025 Children’s Day Fun-Fair held at Turf Arena, Abuja, and organized by Ryan & Jasmine Consult in partnership with Assertium.

The event, themed “My Voice, My Future”, aimed to instill financial awareness, creativity, and self-confidence in children through a day filled with educational activities and fun.

Agama underscored the urgency of financial literacy for children, especially in combating the lure of Ponzi schemes and preparing them for a secure future.

“Investment for children usually happens through collective investment schemes or mutual funds since minors cannot directly access the capital market. With Nigeria’s youthful population, inculcating this culture early is essential,” he said.

He stressed that collective investment schemes for children, which have now surpassed N8.6 trillion, are expected to grow further due to the demographic strength of Nigeria’s young population.

“We must instill the value of investing in children from the cradle. The collective investment space is growing and will grow bigger,” he added.

In her opening remarks, Mary Makanjuola, speaking on behalf of Ryan & Jasmine Consult, described the platform as a safe and empowering space for children.

“Thanks to Assertium’s support, these children are learning not just to speak up, but to think smart about money and the future,” she said.

Monsurat Ayoola, Group CEO of Assertium, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to shaping responsible, creative, and financially literate future leaders.

One of the day’s highlights was a comment from young participant Modesire Makajuola, who said: “I learned how to save and invest in goods and services. I want the government to build better roads and be firm in politics. Happy Children’s Day to everyone.”

The event featured engaging sessions on entrepreneurship, budgeting, creativity, and life skills—effectively merging education with entertainment to help children navigate a fast-changing world.