How to Attend an AGM in Nigeria as a Shareholder
Every listed Nigerian company must hold an Annual General Meeting. This guide explains how shareholders can attend in person or by proxy, what is voted on at AGMs, and how to appoint a proxy if you cannot attend.
An Annual General Meeting (AGM) is a formal meeting of a company's shareholders, held once per year. For NGX-listed companies, AGMs are a legal requirement under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). As a registered shareholder, you have the right to attend, ask questions, and vote on the resolutions put to the meeting.
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Who is entitled to attend and vote
A shareholder whose name appears on the company register for the meeting is entitled to attend and vote. Ordinary shares typically carry one vote each. If shares are held through a nominee or pooled account, the nominee is the registered holder, so the platform must explain how it passes meeting notices and voting instructions to beneficial owners.
How to find out about an upcoming AGM
Companies are required to give shareholders advance notice of the AGM — typically at least 21 days' written notice, though CAMA provides specific requirements. Notice is sent to registered shareholders at their address on the CSCS register. Companies also publish AGM notices on the NGX platform, the SEC EDGAR-equivalent, and often on the company's own investor relations website. Keeping your registered address and contact details current at CSCS ensures you receive AGM notices directly.
Attending in person
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To attend in person, bring your share certificate or confirmation of your CSCS holding, along with a valid means of identification. AGM venues are stated in the notice. Arrive with sufficient time to register — most AGMs require shareholder registration at the venue before proceedings begin. As a registered shareholder, admission is your right.
Attending by proxy
If you cannot attend in person, you can appoint a proxy — any person you authorise to attend and vote on your behalf. The AGM notice will include a proxy form. Complete the proxy form with the name of your proxy and your voting instructions on each resolution, sign it, and submit it to the registrar by the deadline stated in the notice (typically 48 hours before the meeting). Your proxy form gives your representative authority to vote as instructed.
What is voted on at an AGM
- Approval of the annual report and audited financial statements
- Declaration and approval of the final dividend (if recommended by the board)
- Election or re-election of directors
- Appointment and remuneration of auditors
- Any special resolutions — such as authorising share capital increases or amending the company's articles
How AGM results are published
After the AGM, companies are required to file the results of resolutions with NGX and SEC Nigeria. Results are typically published on the NGX platform within a short period after the meeting. If a dividend was declared, the payment timeline and record date are also announced at this point.
Electronic voting and shareholder questions
Some Nigerian companies hold virtual or hybrid meetings and provide electronic voting or proxy submission through the registrar. The AGM notice confirms which methods are available. Shareholders attending the meeting can also ask the board questions relevant to the business before the meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend or vote at an AGM?
No. Attendance and voting are optional. A shareholder who cannot attend can use the proxy process described in the AGM notice.
Can a shareholder living outside Nigeria vote?
Yes. A registered shareholder can appoint a proxy from abroad, and may be able to submit instructions electronically when the company offers that facility.
What if I did not receive the AGM notice?
Check the NGX disclosure portal or the company investor relations website, then contact the company registrar to confirm that your postal and email details are current.
What is a special resolution?
A special resolution covers a significant company action and normally needs a higher approval threshold than ordinary business. The AGM notice states the resolution and applicable voting requirement.
Is an AGM the same as an EGM?
No. An AGM handles the company's recurring annual business. An extraordinary general meeting is called outside that cycle for specific business that cannot wait until the next AGM.
Important disclaimer. This article is for general information and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. AGM notice periods, proxy procedures, and voting rules are governed by CAMA, NGX rules, and individual company articles of association. Refer to the specific AGM notice and company documentation for the meeting you are attending. Shares Saver does not provide legal advice.
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