At the launch of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange (ESX), the Group CEO of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), Temi Popoola, highlighted the transformative potential of Africa’s capital markets.

According to Popoola, there is the need for stronger regional collaboration, government-private sector synergy, and innovative market solutions to further discover Africa's economic potential.

He said: “The launch of ESX represents a pivotal moment for Ethiopia and the broader African financial landscape.

“ESX will serve as a crucial mechanism for capital formation and market liquidity, driving sustainable economic growth.

“Our partnership transcends traditional investment parameters.

"It is about ensuring that ESX evolves into a key player in Africa’s financial ecosystem, enabling cross-border investments and setting benchmarks for market development.”

Popoola shared global success stories like India, which has leveraged its capital markets to achieve great economic transformation.

“By following this path, Ethiopia can become a financial hub in Africa,” he said.

Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed commended the launch of ESX as a transformative milestone in the country’s journey toward economic modernization.

“Today, we have officially rung the bell to launch the Ethiopian Securities Exchange, our nation’s first stock exchange.

“This is a call to global investors: Ethiopia offers immense potential, a fast-growing economy, and a clear trajectory toward shared prosperity,” he said.