Nigerian Exchange recorded historic wealth creation in the first half of 2026.
The all-share index climbed from around 156,500 points at the start of the year to peaks above 250,000 before settling near 233,580 by late June, delivering year-to-date gains exceeding 50 percent and twelve-month returns above 95 percent.
Market capitalisation expanded from ₦99.38 trillion at end-2025 to approximately ₦149.9 trillion (roughly $109 billion).
February alone added ₦17.6 trillion in a single month, the largest monthly equity wealth creation on record.
Banking-sector recapitalisation, naira stabilisation and improved corporate earnings drove the rally, with industrial goods, telecoms (MTN, Airtel) and consumer names posting strong advances.
The performance translated into tangible portfolio gains for pension funds, retail investors and institutional holders.
Analysts link the bull run to policy reforms that reduced currency volatility and restored foreign-portfolio interest, although profit-taking and global risk sentiment continue to produce short-term corrections.
For ordinary Nigerians, the practical money-making angle remains disciplined long-term equity exposure through licensed brokers or mutual funds rather than speculative day-trading.
The sharp rise has therefore turned the Nigerian market into one of the year’s major financial stories, although investors still need to remember that strong gains can come with equally sharp corrections.
