Emomotimi Agama, the director-general (DG) of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), says the regulator’s top priority for 2025 is to revamp regulations on investment fraud, also known as ponzi scheme, to enhance detection and accountability.

In his new year message to the capital market over the weekend, Agama said the commission’s plans for the year also include mainstreaming the Nigerian capital market into the economy.

“The SEC is positioned with a dual mandate in regulating and developing the capital market in Nigeria. Naturally, our top priority in 2025 will cut across the dual mandate. For us, mainstreaming the Nigerian Capital Market into the economy is very vital,” he said.

“Enforcement is the backbone of effective regulation. We are revamping our investigative processes to enhance efficiency and hold bad actors accountable more decisively.

“Insider trading undermines activities and dampens market fairness. By revising our regulatory framework, we aim to strengthen detection, prevention, and accountability mechanisms.

“Transparency is at the heart of investor confidence and capital markets. We will introduce measures to ensure greater visibility and trust in securities transactions.”

Agama also said the commodities market is a major area of interest for the SEC.

“Nigeria is purely an agrarian nation and as such, taking that comparative advantage to the next level, is something that the SEC is proud to be a part of,” he said.

“It is a vital part of the Nigeria economy. This year, we will focus on reinforcing the legal and regulatory structures that support growth so we can create a solid foundation for the vibrant commodities ecosystem. Be it a soft commodity or a hard commodity.

“More so, when we have a plethora of commodities all over Nigeria. The SEC as a partner in development will make sure that we will make the difference.”

The DG added that the commission intends to steer the capital market towards a direction that ensures development reaches every Nigerian in the capital market community.

United State carrier Delta Air Lines has announced the inclusion of local dishes into food options that will be made available to passengers, on its Lagos-Atlanta flight.

In a statement made available to The PUNCH on Thursday, the airline noted that Nigerian delicacies such as ‘Ewa Agoin will now be available to passengers.

It also promised to offer a luxurious travel experience for passengers flying in its Delta One premium cabin from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

The airline stated, “This holiday season, passengers can indulge in a delectable range of continental and Nigerian-inspired culinary delights designed to satisfy a variety of tastes while flying.

“As part of the premium cabin experience, Delta One travellers are treated to a carefully curated selection of dishes. Upon take-off, guests can choose from an array of starters, including sliced beef fillet with pineapple salsa and sweet chilli sauce, a refreshing corn soup with toasted corn salsa, or a mixed greens salad with spicy lemon dressing. A sunflower roll, served with whole butter, completes the initial course.”

It will be recalled that in October, Keyamo directed foreign airlines to patronise local caterers for on-board meals.

He gave the directive through a letter dated October 15, 2024, in which the ministry said the directive takes effect from January 1.

While hinting at the new cuisine, the airline also explained that food will now be served twice onboard.

The statement reads partly, “For the main course, Delta showcases the best of Nigerian cuisine alongside international options.

Those in the mood for a traditional Nigerian dish can enjoy roasted cod with basmati rice, agoyin-style beans, and sweet plantains, or opt for grilled chicken thigh with jollof rice and plantain.

A plant-based alternative, featuring a hearty bean stew with rice, spinach, tomatoes, and fried onions, is also available for vegetarians.

“Dessert options include a pineapple upside-down tart with whipped cream, a fresh seasonal fruit assortment, a classic ice cream sundae, or a refined fruit and cheese plate, offering something for every sweet tooth.

“As the flight nears its descent into Atlanta, Delta One passengers are treated to a final meal, featuring spicy chicken pie, a vegetable salad with zesty lemon dressing, and a selection of mini desserts. For those preferring a vegetarian option, jollof risotto with roasted vegetables and a spicy tomato sauce is available, paired with fresh fruit and mini desserts.”

The Sudanese government, in an effort to stabilize its crumbling economy, has introduced new banknotes and compelled the largely unbanked population to open bank accounts.

The initiative, launched in December, aims to render funds looted by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) worthless.

According to Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim, the initiative has been successful, though he did not specify the amount of Sudanese pounds deposited.

Sudan has been embroiled in a two-year conflict between the army and the RSF, which has severely damaged the economy, devalued the currency by three-quarters, and left half the population facing hunger.

Ibrahim stated that the government’s move has significantly boosted bank deposits. “This helps the banking sector, and when you help the banking sector, that helps the state to finance projects, including the war effort and productive activities,” Ibrahim told Reuters in an interview.

Limited amount to be withdrawn daily

To receive the new 500-pound and 1,000-pound banknotes, citizens have been required to deposit their old notes in banks and are allowed to withdraw limited amounts daily. This strategy has drawn funds from a largely unbanked society into the formal financial system.

Since the onset of the war, RSF soldiers have looted numerous banks and obstructed agricultural activities, making it difficult for the army-aligned government to pay salaries and finance essential goods such as medicine.

Ibrahim noted that Sudan produced 64 tonnes of gold last year and officially exported about half, indicating that the proportion of looted gold in army-controlled areas has decreased.

A source at Sudan’s central bank revealed that the new banknotes were printed in Russia, one of several foreign powers intervening in the conflict.