The Nigerian Exchange has announced an extension of its daily trading hours, with the market now set to close at 4:00 pm following approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Previously, trading ran from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm, but starting Monday, April 27, 2026, sessions will begin at 9:00 am and end at 4:00 pm on weekdays.
According to the exchange, the move is aimed at boosting market liquidity, improving price discovery, and expanding access for investors. The extended hours are also expected to give market participants more flexibility and allow quicker reactions to market-moving developments.
The decision comes amid growing investor interest in Nigerian equities, partly driven by anticipation around the planned listing of Dangote Refinery later this year.
The reform also aligns with Nigeria’s recent upgrade to Frontier Market status by FTSE Russell, a development seen as enhancing the country’s appeal to both local and international investors.
Overall, the change reflects ongoing efforts by regulators and the exchange to build a more liquid, accessible, and globally competitive financial market.
