The Securities and Exchange Commission has signaled its willingness to work with the National Orientation Agency to educate Nigerians about illegal investment schemes.

SEC Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, made the statement during a meeting with NOA Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, in Abuja on Thursday.

He said, “These are not supposed to be, but many people fall victim due to a lack of knowledge. We know these schemes are springing up daily and these people are defrauding Nigerians. People are always gullible due to the need to survive. As management, we decided to move out to enlighten people; we cannot assume that people know. We need to go out for mass communication; hence, this collaboration. It is only by co-operation that we can achieve the purpose of our existence.”

Agama called on the NOA to use its wide-reaching communication network to ensure the message reaches every corner of the country.

“This collaboration is important because it will go a long way in ensuring that Nigerians are no longer victims of these fraudulent schemes. We appreciate that you value this country, and we value the work that you do,” he added.

Responding, Issa-Onilu praised the SEC for its recent achievements in the capital market, noting that the Commission’s successes have not received sufficient recognition.

He stated, “We commend you and thank you on behalf of the country, but most Nigerians are not aware of the opportunities in the capital market. An ignorant society will fall victim to many avoidable things. It is our responsibility to enlighten people to make the right decisions.

“We request that you provide information on what you do to enable us to propagate them. Our primary assignment is to serve all government institutions as the communications arm. We do a lot of enlightenment in places like the religious houses, motor parks, town halls, etc.”

Issa-Onilu stated that the NOA conducts civic education to instill values that help Nigerians become responsible and engaged citizens.