NGX Group CEO identifies AI, energy, agric as Nigeria’s next investment frontiers

Temi Popoola, group managing director and chief executive officer of Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), has identified artificial intelligence (AI), energy and agriculture as sectors poised to shape Nigeria’s next phase of economic growth, underscoring the importance of directing capital towards industries that address the country’s long-term development priorities.

Speaking during a recent interview, Popoola described artificial intelligence as one of the defining technologies of the future while noting that, in the Nigerian context, opportunities in energy and agriculture remain equally compelling because of their potential to drive sustainable economic growth and strengthen economic resilience.

“Artificial intelligence is undoubtedly one of the defining technologies of the future,” Popoola said. “At the same time, sectors such as energy and agriculture remain fundamental to Nigeria’s long-term prosperity because they address some of our most important development priorities.”

He said the long-term outlook for these sectors aligns with the broader vision of building a deeper and more globally competitive capital market capable of mobilising capital for businesses that will power Nigeria’s future economy.

Popoola said Nigerian Exchange’s ambition to become Africa’s leading exchange is anchored on harnessing the country’s inherent strengths while creating a market that efficiently connects businesses seeking capital with investors looking for long-term value.

“Our strategy is to build on Nigeria’s inherent strengths,” Popoola said. “We have a youthful, vibrant and increasingly upwardly mobile population with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Coupled with the richness of our culture, these are enduring competitive advantages that position Nigeria to create greater value on the global stage.”

He noted that Nigeria also benefits from a growing pipeline of established businesses seeking long-term capital, creating a natural opportunity for the capital market to connect companies with investors seeking sustainable wealth creation.

“You can think of it as a supply and demand conversation,” he said. “There’s a supply of very good companies that want to raise capital on the Exchange and a demand from people who want to support those businesses and create wealth through the capital markets.”

According to Popoola, the combination of entrepreneurial talent, innovative businesses and increasing investor participation provides a strong foundation for deepening Nigeria’s capital market and strengthening its competitiveness across the continent.

He added that Nigeria’s growing cultural influence and creativity also present opportunities for the capital market to evolve alongside emerging industries, creating new pathways for innovation, enterprise and long-term value creation.

Beyond finance, Popoola encouraged young Nigerians to embrace continuous learning, adaptability and innovation, noting that a nation’s long-term prosperity is ultimately driven by the ingenuity, resilience and ambition of its people.