The Nigerian stock market closed Friday with a net gain of N1.857 trillion in investors’ wealth, extending its 14‑session winning streak. Market capitalisation rose 1.29 percent to N145.334 trillion, up from N143.477 trillion the day before, while the All‑Share Index added 2,884.81 points, also a 1.29 percent increase, ending at 225,722.49 versus Thursday’s 222,837.68.
The broad‑based rally was underpinned by 43 advancing stocks compared with 26 decliners, reinforcing positive market breadth. On the gainers’ list, Academy Press and United Power Distribution Company (UPDC) led with 10 percent increases each, closing at N7.70 and N4.40 per share respectively. Other notable performers included Haldane McCall, Zichis Agro Allied Industries and Wema Bank, all posting double‑digit gains.
Meyer was the most pressured stock, slipping 9.92 percent to close at N16.80 per share. It was followed by declines in Trans‑Nationwide Express, C&I Leasing, Omatek Ventures and E‑Tranzact.
Trading activity showed a mixed picture. Total share volume fell six percent to 627.6 million shares, yet the number of transactions rose four percent to 55,232 deals. The value of shares traded increased 17 percent, reaching N44.5 billion, compared with N38.12 billion in the prior session.
Access Corporation emerged as the most active broker, handling 75.62 million shares – 12.05 percent of the day’s total volume. In value terms, MTN Nigeria dominated, accounting for N8.20 billion, or 18.42 percent of the total value exchanged.
The sustained rally adds momentum to the market’s year‑to‑date performance, which has benefited from a combination of improved corporate earnings, stable macro‑economic indicators and continued foreign investor interest. Analysts note that the ongoing positivity could bolster capital inflows, provided global risk sentiment remains favourable and domestic policy support persists.
With the market now on its 14th consecutive gain, participants will watch upcoming earnings releases and any shifts in monetary policy for clues on the depth and durability of the current uptrend.
