The group chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Umaru Kwairanga, has called for stronger capital market collaboration to deepen economic ties between Nigeria and the United States.

Mr Kwairanga made the call on Thursday at the U.S.–Nigeria Council Dinner held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, a statement said on Friday.

The NGX Group chairman said the Nigeria–U.S. relationship remained strategically important, driven by economic complementarity and a shared belief in enterprise as a catalyst for prosperity.

According to him, Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, continues to be a key partner to the United States in advancing trade, investment and sustainable development across the continent.

The NGX Group chairman commended the U.S.–Nigeria Council for providing a platform that brought together government and business leaders to translate goodwill into tangible economic outcomes.

He noted that such engagements supported collaboration in critical sectors, including food security, agricultural value chains, trade expansion, and long-term investment, which directly impacted livelihoods.

“Nigeria’s youthful and entrepreneurial population, expanding markets, and abundant resources align well with the United States’ strengths in capital, innovation, technology, and institutional expertise.

“Aligning these strengths can deliver transformative outcomes for both countries and drive broader regional growth,” he said.

Speaking on the role of capital markets, Mr Kwairanga described them as vital bridges in strengthening bilateral economic partnerships.

He said that efficient, transparent and well-regulated capital markets enabled businesses to grow, infrastructure to be financed and innovation to scale.

The NGX Group chairman said the exchange remained committed to providing market infrastructure that boosted investor confidence and encouraged domestic and international participation, including from American institutions and enterprises.

Mr Kwairanga added that the growing interest of global investors in Nigeria reflected confidence in the country’s long-term economic fundamentals and ongoing reforms aimed at improving the business environment.

He emphasised that market operators had a responsibility to ensure that discussions at high-level forums translated into practical investment opportunities through credible platforms for capital formation.

The NGX Group chairman said sustained engagement, trust, and human connections were essential to turning agreements into real economic progress.

He appreciated the U.S.–Nigeria Council for its leadership and thanked American partners for their continued engagement and confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

According to him, deeper cooperation and stronger market collaboration between both countries will create lasting benefits for their peoples.

(NAN)