Investors Gain N26.78trn In 30 Days Amid Foreign Inflows’ Rebound

The Nigerian Exchange posted a historic N26.784 trillion gain in market capitalisation within one month, buoyed by signs of returning foreign portfolio inflows and strong domestic participation.

Capital market analysts attributed the April performance, the highest monthly gain in the history of the Exchange, to improved naira stability, recapitalisation clarity in banking, and extended trading hours, which have deepened liquidity, setting the stage for sustained momentum if fundamentals hold.

The market capitalisation increased by N26.784 trillion from N129.210 trillion at the beginning of April to N155.994 trillion at the end of April 30, 2026. Similarly, the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited All-Share Index (ASI) rose by 20.36 per cent from 201,287.78 points to open trading in April 2026 to 242,277.81 points on April 30, 2026.

Speaking on market performance for April, the chief operating officer of InvestData Consulting Limited, Ambrose Omordion, stated that the market recorded its first highest monthly gain in its history.

“This achievement is particularly noteworthy as the earnings from both foreign and local companies are exceeding expectations. In the context of ongoing global challenges, including the crisis in the Middle East, the Nigerian market stands out as one of the best-performing markets both globally and in Africa, yielding attractive returns for investors,” he said.

He noted that the global potential positions Nigeria’s market favourably in relation to the economic recovery underway in the country, saying that government policies form the foundation of this recovery, influencing market pricing and reflecting the economic shifts we are observing.

According to Omordion, this development serves as an eye-opener, as local companies on the Nigerian Exchange are rewarding shareholders generously, supporting the rising prices and demonstrating the market’s ability to generate wealth for both seasoned and new investors.

“Additionally, the current market environment presents a valuable opportunity for companies to raise funds. In a thriving market, businesses can more easily obtain capital, which in turn boosts employment and drives economic growth. The Nigerian stock market is playing a pivotal role in supporting this economic development, showing alignment with international standards.”

Omordion added that the Nigerian stock market is well-positioned to support the economy and create wealth for investors, offering an encouraging outlook for the future.

The managing director and CEO of ECL Asset Management Limited, Charles Fakrogha, said that since the beginning of January, the Nigerian equities market has shown a noticeable improvement.

He emphasised, “the significance of ongoing reforms, particularly structural reforms that have been reshaping the market landscape. For instance, the transition from a T+3 settlement cycle to a T+2, and now discussions are already underway regarding the potential implementation of a T+1 cycle. This shift indicates a move towards faster trade settlements, which may enhance liquidity and investor confidence.”

In addition to changes in settlement periods, Fakrogha noted that the performance of various listed companies has contributed positively to market sentiment, saying that the returns these companies are generating and reporting to investors play a crucial role in encouraging further investment.

Alongside these factors, he noted that some government reforms are also fueling optimism and stability in the market.

He confidently stated that the market is sustainable, citing that, for any market, price fluctuations are a natural occurrence and prices tend to rise and fall.

Fakrogha mentioned that the first-quarter (Q1) results have been released and are indicative of strong performance, adding that investors appear to be strategically positioning themselves to benefit from upcoming dividends while considering their overall investment strategies and policies.