The Nigerian capital market has recorded a robust 16.57% growth in the first half of 2025, with the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) All-Share Index (ASI) climbing to 119,978.57 points from 102,926.40 at the year’s start.
This surge, driven by strong performances in banking, consumer goods, and agricultural sectors, has pushed the market capitalisation of NGX instruments to an impressive ₦126.73 trillion, reflecting renewed investor confidence and economic resilience.
The NGX’s growth is attributed to regulatory reforms, banking sector recapitalisation, and strategic digital initiatives like NGX Invest, which has democratized access to capital markets. The ASI’s year-to-date gain, though lower than the 33.81% recorded in H1 2024, highlights sustained investor interest, particularly in mid-cap stocks. Beta Glass led with a 414.6% gain, followed by other top performers like Honeywell Flour Mills and Caverton.
The banking sector also thrived, with major banks such as Zenith, GTCO, and Access Holdings posting a combined pre-tax profit of ₦5.1 trillion in 2024, a 59.4% increase from the previous year, fueling market optimism.
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In Rivers State, the economic ripple effects of this market boom are evident. Port Harcourt, a commercial hub, has seen increased investor activity in local firms like Transcorp Hotels, which reported strong growth in market value. The state’s business community, including traders at the bustling Mile One Market, benefits from improved liquidity and investment inflows, supporting small-scale enterprises.
Local analysts note that the capital market’s growth has spurred job creation in related sectors like logistics, with companies such as Caverton and NAHCO posting significant gains of 147% and 96%, respectively, enhancing economic activity in the region.
The consumer goods sector, led by firms like BUA Foods and Cadbury Nigeria, posted a 32.4% gain, driven by improved earnings and naira stability. Agricultural stocks, particularly Presco and Ellah Lakes, delivered a remarkable 126.5% growth, reflecting Nigeria’s push for food security. The Central Bank of Nigeria’s efforts to stabilise the naira and enhance foreign exchange liquidity have further bolstered investor sentiment.
Despite challenges like inflation and exchange rate fluctuations, the NGX’s digital innovations, such as the USSD code *5474# for retail investors, have expanded market access. With 16 companies now surpassing ₦1 trillion in market capitalisation, including Airtel Africa and Dangote Cement, Nigeria’s capital market is poised for further growth, provided policy stability is maintained.
For Rivers State and the nation, this upward trajectory signals a promising outlook for economic development and wealth creation.
