NGX extends trading hours to 4pm from April 27

The Nigerian Exchange Limited has announced an extension of daily trading hours, with the market set to open from 9:00am to 4:00pm starting Monday, April 27, 2026.

A statement from the bourse on Friday said the extension was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

According to the exchange, the adjustment followed consultations with stakeholders and is aimed at deepening market liquidity, improving price discovery and widening investor access.

NGX said the longer trading session would give investors greater flexibility, allow faster reactions to market-moving developments and encourage broader participation across the capital market.

The reform comes amid renewed appetite for Nigerian equities and growing expectations around the planned listing of Dangote Refinery shares later this year.

The exchange also linked the decision to Nigeria’s recent reclassification to Frontier Market status by FTSE Russell, saying it strengthens the market’s global appeal and competitiveness.

NGX said the new structure reinforces its ambition to remain a leading multi-asset exchange by boosting liquidity, improving market access and supporting capital formation in Nigeria’s financial system.