Nigeria’s stock market reached a historic milestone on Monday as the NGX All-Share Index (ASI) surged past the 200,000-point mark, closing at 201,474.89 points. The gain, representing a 1.55% increase from Friday’s 198,407.30 points, was fueled by strong investor appetite and broad-based gains across major sectors. Month-to-date returns now stand at 4.48%, while year-to-date growth hits 29.47%, signaling a robust start to 2026 for equities investors.
Market capitalisation also expanded to N129.33 trillion from N127.36 trillion, driven largely by gains in large-cap stocks. Financial services and industrial sectors were particularly active, reflecting sustained investor interest. Trading activity remained vibrant, with 72,700 deals executed and 948.1 million shares exchanged, valued at N49.15 billion.
The milestone prompted comments from Temi Popoola, Group Managing Director and CEO of Nigerian Exchange Group, who described the growth as a reflection of rising confidence in Nigeria’s capital market. “Ongoing reforms are strengthening domestic capital formation, and the market is responding positively,” he said. “Increased participation by local investors, improving corporate fundamentals, and continued market modernisation are reinforcing the role of the capital market as a catalyst for long-term wealth creation and sustainable economic growth.”
Similarly, Jude Chiemeka, CEO of Nigerian Exchange Limited, emphasized the importance of sustained investor engagement. “Crossing the 200,000-point mark reflects consistent demand across key sectors. At Nigerian Exchange, we remain focused on deepening market liquidity, enhancing trading infrastructure, and ensuring efficient price discovery to support a resilient and transparent marketplace,” he stated.
Top performers for the day included BUA Cement Plc, Premier Paints Plc, John Holt Plc, Guinea Insurance Plc, and FTN Cocoa Processors Plc. Meanwhile, VFD Group Plc, Royal Exchange Plc, Omatek Ventures Plc, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, and Regency Alliance Insurance Plc recorded declines. Analysts note that the milestone underscores continued momentum in Nigeria’s equities market, attracting both domestic and institutional investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.
source: punch