The Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) has announced a shift in its daily trading schedule, extending market hours in a move designed to strengthen liquidity and encourage greater investor participation.
According to a statement issued on April 17, 2026, the new timetable will take effect from Monday, April 27. Under the revised structure, trading will commence earlier at 9:00 a.m., instead of the previous 9:30 a.m., and close later at 4:00 p.m. This effectively lengthens the trading day, giving market participants a broader window to engage.
The exchange noted that the adjustment has been approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is part of efforts to improve overall market efficiency. By extending trading hours, investors will have more time to respond to economic updates, corporate announcements, and other market-moving information.
NGX also linked the decision to Nigeria’s recent reclassification as a Frontier Market by FTSE Russell.
This development is expected to increase international interest in the country’s capital market, and the extended hours could make it easier for foreign investors operating across different time zones to participate.
According to the exchange, the longer trading window is expected to deepen market liquidity, enhance price discovery, and expand access for both retail and institutional investors.
The decision, NGX added, followed consultations with key stakeholders across the market to ensure that the transition would be smooth and that all participants are adequately prepared for the change.
While earlier discussions considered even longer trading periods, the exchange opted for a gradual approach. This allows regulators and market operators to monitor the impact of the new schedule before making further adjustments.
Globally, extended trading hours are commonly used to improve market responsiveness and ensure quicker absorption of financial and economic news.
NGX believes adopting a similar approach will help modernise Nigeria’s capital market, improve transparency, and build stronger investor confidence.
Ultimately, the exchange sees this reform as part of a broader strategy to position the market for sustained growth and increased global relevance.
