The Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at helping Nigerians recover unclaimed dividends and inherited investments that remain with registrars and other financial institutions. The initiative is designed to improve public awareness about the procedures for identifying and claiming financial assets that have remained untouched for extended periods. The commission is encouraging investors, beneficiaries and families of deceased shareholders to verify whether they have outstanding dividends or investments and take the necessary steps to claim them. Many Nigerians have accumulated unclaimed dividends over the years because of changes in addresses, incomplete bank details, outdated investor information, lack of awareness and difficulties associated with transferring investments after the death of a shareholder. The SEC’s renewed effort is expected to bring greater attention to the issue while making the recovery process easier for eligible beneficiaries. The commission has also stressed the importance of keeping investor records up to date and ensuring that relevant financial information is properly documented. For inherited investments, beneficiaries may be required to provide appropriate legal and identification documents before ownership can be transferred or proceeds released. The nationwide campaign is part of broader efforts to strengthen investor protection, improve confidence in Nigeria’s capital market and ensure that legitimate owners have access to their funds. The SEC is urging members of the public to take advantage of available channels for verifying their investment records and resolving outstanding claims. Investors are also encouraged to remain cautious of individuals or organisations requesting unnecessary payments or sensitive information while claiming to assist with the recovery process.
