Background of the Study
Government policies are fundamental in shaping the development and efficiency of capital markets, which serve as key channels for mobilizing savings and facilitating investment. In Nigeria, the capital market has undergone significant reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, improving regulatory frameworks, and encouraging investor participation. Recent initiatives include the modernization of trading platforms, tax incentives for market participants, and stricter corporate governance standards (Nwankwo, 2023). These measures are designed to attract both domestic and foreign investment, thereby fostering a stable and vibrant capital market that can support sustainable economic growth.
Improved capital market infrastructure and regulatory reforms have contributed to better price discovery, increased liquidity, and more efficient resource allocation. As a result, the Nigerian capital market has the potential to play a critical role in driving economic diversification and reducing reliance on traditional sectors such as oil and gas. However, challenges persist, including market volatility, limited retail investor participation, and insufficient investor education. These issues hinder the full realization of the benefits of capital market development and raise questions about the long-term effectiveness of government policies (Ike, 2024).
The dynamic interplay between policy interventions and market performance necessitates an evaluation of how government measures have influenced capital market development in Nigeria. This study aims to assess the impact of these policies on key market indicators, investor confidence, and overall economic performance. By identifying best practices and policy gaps, the research seeks to provide recommendations for further strengthening the capital market framework, thereby enhancing its contribution to national economic stability and growth (Nwankwo, 2023; Ike, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Despite comprehensive government policies aimed at reforming Nigeria’s capital market, the sector continues to face challenges that undermine its stability and growth potential. A primary problem is the inconsistent implementation and enforcement of regulatory measures, which results in an uneven market environment. While some reforms have led to improvements in transparency and liquidity, others have failed to stimulate significant investor participation, particularly among retail investors (Nwankwo, 2023).
Additionally, limited investor education and awareness contribute to low participation levels, further reducing market depth and resilience. External factors such as global economic fluctuations and domestic political uncertainties further complicate the effectiveness of capital market reforms, leading to episodes of volatility and reduced investor confidence (Ike, 2024). These challenges hinder the market’s ability to mobilize capital efficiently and support long-term economic development.
Without a coherent and integrated policy framework, the benefits of capital market development may remain unrealized, limiting the sector’s role in promoting economic diversification and sustainable growth. This study seeks to address these issues by examining the impact of government policies on capital market performance and identifying the key barriers to effective market development. The goal is to propose targeted policy recommendations that can enhance investor participation, stabilize market operations, and drive economic progress (Ike, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the impact of government policy reforms on Nigeria’s capital market development.
To identify barriers to effective investor participation and market stability.
To propose policy recommendations for enhancing capital market performance.
Research Questions
How have government policies influenced the development of Nigeria’s capital market?
What factors hinder effective investor participation in the market?
What strategies can improve the long-term stability of the capital market?
Research Hypotheses
H₁: Government policy reforms are positively correlated with improved market liquidity and transparency.
H₂: Gaps in investor education negatively affect capital market participation.
H₃: A comprehensive policy framework enhances the stability and growth of the capital market.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on the period from 2020 to 2025, analyzing the impact of government policies on Nigeria’s capital market. Limitations include external economic influences and data reliability issues.
Definitions of Terms
Capital Market: A market for trading securities, including stocks and bonds.
Government Policies: Regulatory and fiscal measures implemented to shape market behavior.
Market Liquidity: The ease with which assets can be traded without affecting their price.
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