Nigeria’s equities market posted a marginal gain on March 26, 2026, as the benchmark index edged higher in a session marked by subdued trading activity and mixed performance across large-cap stocks.
The Nigerian Exchange All-Share Index rose by 32 points, or 0.02 percent, to close at 200,957.9, according to official data at the close of trading on Thursday. Market capitalisation remained unchanged at N128.9 trillion, reflecting a steady but cautious market tone.
A total of 678 million shares were traded in 42,222 deals, indicating moderate participation as investors maintained selective positioning. Despite the soft activity, sentiment remained broadly positive, pushing the market’s year-to-date return to 29.14 percent from 28.98 percent.
MTN Nigeria led in value terms, accounting for N11.06 billion in trades. It was followed by Access Holdings with N3.4 billion, while Wema Bank recorded N2.7 billion. Aradel Holdings and Zenith Bank completed the top tier of value trades.
In terms of volume, Access Holdings dominated with 134.5 million shares, followed by Wema Bank at 105.5 million and Veritas Kapital Assurance at 74.1 million shares. Trading in United Bank for Africa also remained active.
Market breadth was positive, with gainers outpacing losers. Zichis Agro-Allied and Premier Paints led the gainers’ chart, each advancing 10 percent. Legend Internet, John Holt, and McNichols also recorded notable gains.
On the downside, University Press declined 9.17 percent, while Sunu Assurances fell 8.88 percent. Losses were also seen in Veritas Kapital, Royal Exchange, and FTN Cocoa Processors, reflecting pockets of profit-taking.
Among large-cap stocks, performance was mixed. Nigerian Breweries rose 1.88 percent, while MTN Nigeria posted a modest 0.15 percent gain. Lafarge Africa declined 1.54 percent, and Wema Bank dipped slightly.
Banking stocks also showed mixed sentiment. Zenith Bank gained 1.53 percent and Guaranty Trust Holding Company rose 0.74 percent, while First HoldCo edged up 0.10 percent. In contrast, United Bank for Africa declined 0.95 percent and Access Holdings slipped 0.19 percent.
A report says the index has firmed above the 200,000 mark, suggesting a near-term consolidation phase. The relatively modest gain, despite higher traded volume compared to the previous session, indicates selective accumulation rather than broad market momentum.
If buying interest is sustained, the index may test the 201,000 level in the short term, though further upside will likely depend on stronger liquidity and clearer macroeconomic direction.