Nigeria recorded a major increase in foreign capital inflows during the first quarter of 2026, with total capital importation rising to $10.37 billion. This was revealed in the latest Capital Importation Report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
According to the report, the amount of foreign capital brought into the country between January and March 2026 increased significantly compared to previous periods. The figure represents an 83.83 percent rise from the $5.64 billion recorded during the same period in 2025. It also shows a 60.97 percent increase when compared to the $6.44 billion recorded in the last quarter of 2025.
The report showed that portfolio investment remained the biggest source of foreign capital entering Nigeria. This category, which includes investments in stocks, bonds, and other financial assets, contributed $9.86 billion. It accounted for more than 95 percent of all capital imported during the quarter.
Other investments, such as loans and trade credits, totaled $374.48 million, making up 3.61 percent of total inflows. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which is often considered the most valuable form of investment because it creates long-term business opportunities and jobs, recorded the smallest contribution. FDI stood at $135.08 million, representing only 1.30 percent of the total capital imported into the country.
The banking sector attracted the largest share of foreign capital during the quarter. It received $7.55 billion, accounting for nearly 73 percent of total inflows. The financing sector came next with $2.43 billion, while the production and manufacturing sector attracted $152.27 million.
A closer look at the source of the investments showed that the United Kingdom remained Nigeria’s largest foreign investor during the period. The UK contributed $5.08 billion, which represented almost half of all capital imported into the country. The United States followed with $3.18 billion, while South Africa contributed $983.83 million.
Among the financial institutions that processed these inflows, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited handled the highest volume, receiving $4.41 billion. Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc followed with $2.78 billion, while Rand Merchant Bank processed $930.82 million.
The latest figures suggest that foreign investors continue to show strong interest in Nigeria’s financial markets. Analysts believe ongoing economic reforms and efforts to improve economic stability have helped boost investor confidence.
However, experts have also expressed concern over the low level of Foreign Direct Investment. While portfolio investments can provide quick capital and improve foreign exchange liquidity, they are often short-term and can leave just as quickly as they arrive. In contrast, direct investments usually support business expansion, infrastructure development, industrial growth, and job creation.
Economic experts say Nigeria must focus more on attracting long-term investments into sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology. Doing so would help create sustainable economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen the country’s overall economy in the years ahead.
