During a Capital Market Awareness, Unclaimed Funds and Investor Education Outreach Programme in Lafia, the [Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Securities_and_Exchange_Commission_(Nigeria)) said it will soon operate a liaison office in the city, aiming to retrieve unclaimed dividends and other investment assets while deepening financial literacy among residents of [Nasarawa State](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasarawa_State).
Key points highlighted by the commission include:
- A renewed push to locate and return savings and investment returns that have remained dormant due to outdated shareholder records or the death of owners.
- A request for the state government to mobilise business owners, cooperative societies, youth groups and market associations to spread investment knowledge.
- The introduction of an enhanced e‑Dividend Mandate Management System that allows dividends to be paid directly into shareholders’ bank accounts and enables easier updating of personal details.
- Appreciation for Governor [Abdullahi A. Sule](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdullahi_Sule) for providing office space previously occupied by the State Ministry of Education.
**What is the purpose of the Lafia liaison office?**
The new office is intended to bring SEC services closer to the people of Lafia, offering a convenient point for investors to verify their records, claim outstanding dividends and receive guidance on legitimate investment opportunities.
**How will unclaimed funds be recovered?**
The commission explained that many unclaimed assets arise from incomplete investor data, changes in bank details or difficulties in transferring holdings after a shareholder’s death. By using the e‑Dividend system, investors can update their information online, allowing dividends to be credited directly to their accounts.
**What did the SEC chairman say?**
Alhaji Mairiga Aliyu Katuka, the SEC chairman, remarked, "An informed population is better positioned to make sound financial decisions, protect its savings and contribute meaningfully to economic growth." He thanked the governor for the office space and urged continuous collaboration between the commission, educational institutions and market operators.
**How did the governor respond?**
Governor Sule praised the SEC’s regulatory role, noting that protecting investors and enhancing market confidence are essential for Nigeria’s economic development. He affirmed the state’s commitment to work with the commission to promote financial inclusion and attract more participants to the capital market.
The outreach also gathered representatives from the Probate Registry, the National Population Commission, academia and various SEC departments, underscoring the need for institutional cooperation in improving shareholder records and resolving outstanding claims. Participants were reminded to stay vigilant against fraudulent schemes and to seek reliable information before committing savings to any investment.
Looking ahead, the SEC plans to maintain regular engagements with government bodies, schools and market stakeholders across the country, using the Lafia liaison office as an additional channel to deepen investor confidence and expand access to capital‑market services beyond major commercial hubs.