FirstCap seeks more investment in businesses, infrastructure

FirstCap Limited, an investment banking outift and subsidiary of First HoldCo Plc, has called for increased investment in Nigeria’s businesses and critical infrastructure, emphasising the need for stronger capital mobilisation, innovative financing solutions, and investment-ready projects to accelerate economic growth.

The firm made this call at the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit (NESG 32), held in Abuja recently under the theme, “Growth That Works: Delivering Jobs, Productivity and Shared Prosperity.” The summit brought together policymakers, investors, development partners, and private-sector leaders to examine strategies for translating economic reforms into increased investment, productivity, and sustainable job creation.

Speaking at the sessions, “Investing in Nigeria’s Productive Future” and “From Reform to Capital Mobilisation: Unlocking the Next Wave of Productive Investment in Nigeria,” FirstCap’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ukandu E. Ukandu, highlighted the importance of creating investment-ready businesses and infrastructure projects capable of attracting long-term capital.

He emphasised that beyond the availability of funding, businesses must demonstrate strong corporate governance, financial transparency, credible reporting, and sound risk-management practices to inspire investor confidence. He also noted the importance of developing financing structures that reflect the unique needs of businesses at different stages of growth.

Discussions at the summit highlighted the significant financing requirements of Nigeria’s critical infrastructure sectors, particularly power and industrial utilities, where sustainable investment remains essential to improving productivity and supporting economic expansion.

Participants also explored innovative financing mechanisms, including blended finance, credit enhancement, guaranteed bonds, and professionally managed investment vehicles, as pathways to attracting institutional investors and unlocking long-term funding.

A key issue emerging from the discussions was the need to bridge the gap between available capital and bankable investment opportunities. Nigeria has substantial domestic institutional funds, including pension assets and other long-term savings pools, which could support productive investments.

However, unlocking these resources requires well-structured projects with clearly defined commercial models, credible governance frameworks, and appropriate risk-allocation mechanisms.

For FirstCap, addressing this gap is central to building a more sustainable investment environment. The firm recognises that effective capital mobilisation requires collaboration among businesses, investors, policymakers, and financial institutions to develop viable opportunities that deliver measurable economic and financial value.