Expert Sees Equities Recovering as Reforms Strengthen Investor Confidence

Nigeria’s equities market is expected to record a gradual recovery in the second half of 2026 as improving corporate performance and ongoing economic reforms continue to boost investor confidence, according to the Chief Executive Officer of HighCap Securities Limited, David Adonri.

Speaking at the Capital Market Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CAMCAN) Mid-Year 2026 Capital Market Review and Outlook in Lagos, Adonri said stronger corporate earnings and improving macroeconomic indicators are expected to support renewed momentum in the stock market.

He explained that the recent decline in share prices should not be viewed as evidence of weak market fundamentals but rather as a normal adjustment resulting from institutional investors rebalancing their portfolios after the rally driven by recent economic reforms.

According to him, the market’s underlying fundamentals remain solid, with investor sentiment supported by ongoing reforms and signs of macroeconomic stability.

Adonri, however, warned that inflation, political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, insecurity, simultaneous corporate capital-raising programmes and geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region could weigh on market performance in the coming months.

He also projected that interest rates would remain elevated for now, while Exchange Traded Products are expected to gradually align with their underlying values as market conditions improve.

The investment expert identified the anticipated listing of the Dangote Refinery on the Nigerian Exchange as a major development that could significantly expand the size, liquidity and attractiveness of Nigeria’s capital market.

Reviewing the broader economy, Adonri noted that Nigeria’s reform agenda has continued to earn international recognition, citing improved sovereign credit ratings and positive economic growth forecasts from global institutions as indicators of growing confidence in the country’s economic management.

He added that higher crude oil production, improved foreign exchange reserves, expanding domestic refining capacity and a more stable naira are expected to support economic growth and encourage investment.

Adonri maintained that while the market is navigating short-term uncertainties, sustained policy consistency, macroeconomic stability and the completion of institutional portfolio adjustments should position the equities market for a moderate recovery in the months ahead.