How to Claim your Shares (Dematerialization Process)

How to Claim your Shares (Dematerialization Process)

To claim your shares, you must complete the dematerialization process.

Dematerialization converts your physical share certificates or verified shareholdings without certificates into electronic form in your CSCS account, allowing you to access, manage, and consolidate all your shares.

The sections below outline the requirements, steps, and FAQs related to claiming your shares.


1. What Is Dematerialization?

Dematerialization is the process of converting physical share certificates or verified shareholdings into electronic units held in your CSCS account through a licensed stockbroker.

This is the required process for anyone who wants to:

  • Claim their shares
  • Recover or verify share ownership
  • Move shares into one portfolio
  • Replace lost certificates
  • Transfer shares from inactive brokers

 

2. How to Claim Your Shares (Dematerialization)

A. Dematerialization Without Certificates

Required Documents

  • Completed Share Dematerialization Form, duly executed by the investor
  • Indemnity Portion
    of the form endorsed by the presenting stockbroking firm
  • Recent passport photograph of the shareholder, endorsed by the stockbroker
  • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • CSCS Statement of Account
  • Board Resolution and Signature Mandate (for corporate investors)

Processing Timeline

48 hours after successful document validation.

 

B. Dematerialization With Certificates

Required Documents

  • Completed Full Share Dematerialization Form, duly executed by the investor
  • Passport photograph of the shareholder, endorsed by the stockbroker
  • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • CSCS Statement of Account
    (not older than 3 months)
  • Indemnity Portion
    endorsed by the presenting stockbroking firm
  • Board Resolution and Signature Mandate (for corporate investors)

Processing Timeline

48 hours after successful document validation.

 

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Must I have a stockbroker to dematerialise my shares?

Yes. Dematerialization can only be processed through an accredited stockbroking firm.

 

2. I don’t want a stockbroker, is there another option?

No. A licensed stockbroker is required for dematerialization and for lodging your shares in CSCS.

 

3. I don’t know my stockbroker, how do I find out?

You can search for authorized stockbrokers here: Find a Broker Here

Or visit any CSCS office for assistance:

Lagos (Head Office):
Stock Exchange House, Floors 1, 12–15, 2/4 Customs Street, Marina, Lagos.
Abuja: 5th Floor, Muktar El Yakub Place, Plot 1129 Zakariya Maimalari Street, CBD, Abuja.

 

4. How can I claim my shares from an inactive stockbroker?

Engage your new stockbroker. They will guide you through the process of transferring your shares from the inactive brokerage firm to the active one.

 

5. How can I change my stockbroker?

Contact your new stockbroker and request a transfer of your shares to another licensed stockbroker of your choice.

 

6. How can I claim my shares?

To claim your shares, complete the dematerialization process through a stockbroker.
All required documents and steps are listed above.

 

7. How can I get a stockbroker?

You can select a licensed broker here: Find a Broker Here

 

8. How do I know my registrar?

Use the registrar directory: Registrar Search Here

 

9. I bought shares but don't have the certificate, what should I do?

Check with your registrar using the link above.
They will verify your shareholding and advise on certificate dematerialization.

 

10. I want to see all my shares in one portfolio, how do I do that?

Speak with your stockbroker about dematerializing all your shares.
Once dematerialized, all shares will be visible in a single CSCS account.



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