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By Chukwuma Umeorah
Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) will extend its daily trading hours from 9:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., effective Monday, April 27, 2026, following approval from the Securities and Exchange Commission Nigeria (SEC).
The change introduces an earlier market opening and a later close, adding 90 minutes to the existing trading window. NGX said the adjustment is intended to improve market activity and allow more time for trades to be executed within a single session. “The expansion shifts the market opening earlier from 9:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and extends the close from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.,” the Exchange stated.
Market operators said a longer trading period could increase transaction volumes and provide investors with more time to react to information.
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However, some noted that liquidity constraints, rather than trading hours, remain a key factor influencing market depth.
The Exchange linked the change to recent developments in Nigeria’s capital market, including its reclassification by FTSE Russell. It said the extended window “will provide greater flexibility for investors” and “support broader participation across the market.”
The implementation follows consultations with stakeholders, according to NGX. The Exchange added that its regulatory arm will oversee the transition and maintain existing market rules.
The adjustment marks one of the few changes to trading hours in recent years and brings Nigeria’s equity market closer to the trading duration seen in some peer markets.
