Nigeria recorded a significant increase in foreign capital inflows in the first quarter of 2026, attracting a total of $10.37 billion, according to the latest Capital Importation Report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The figure represents an 83.8 per cent increase compared to the $5.64 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025 and a 61 per cent rise from the $6.44 billion posted in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The report showed that portfolio investment remained the dominant source of foreign capital, accounting for $9.86 billion, or 95.1 per cent of total inflows during the quarter.
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Other investments contributed $374.48 million, while Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stood at $135.08 million, representing just 1.3 per cent of total capital imported.
Sectoral Analysis
Sectoral analysis revealed that the banking sector attracted the largest share of capital inflows, receiving $7.55 billion, equivalent to 72.8 per cent of the total capital imported during the period.
The financing sector followed with $2.43 billion, while the production and manufacturing sector received $152.27 million.
The report further indicated that the United Kingdom remained Nigeria’s largest source of foreign capital, accounting for $5.08 billion, or 49 per cent of total inflows. The United States ranked second with $3.18 billion, while South Africa contributed $983.83 million.
In terms of financial institutions, Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited recorded the highest volume of capital importation, receiving $4.41 billion, representing 42.6 per cent of the total. Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc followed with $2.78 billion, while Rand Merchant Bank handled $930.82 million in inflows.
The substantial increase in capital importation is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s foreign exchange position and support economic activities.
However, experts note that sustaining the momentum will require policies that encourage greater foreign direct investment, particularly in sectors capable of generating jobs, boosting industrial production, and supporting long-term economic growth.
