The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says that capital inflows into Nigeria maintained strong upward momentum in the first quarter of 2025 with total foreign investment climbing by 67.12% to $5.64 billion.
The NBS said in its latest Nigeria Capital Importation Report that the figure was in contrast to $3.38 billion recorded in the corresponding period in 2024.
The report noted that on a quarterly basis, inflows increased 10.86% from $5.09 billion recorded in the last quarter of 2024, underscoring resilient foreign appetite despite global macro headwinds.
It added that Portfolio Investment remained the dominant driver, accounting for 92.25% of total inflows at $5.20 billion, reflecting heightened foreign participation in Nigeria’s debt and equity markets.
Other Investment followed with $311.17m (5.52%), while Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) was subdued at $126.29 million (2.24%), highlighting continued structural challenges for long-term capital commitments.
According to the report, the sectoral breakdown showed the Banking sector capturing the largest share at $3.13 billion (55.44%), supported by robust fixed income activity and portfolio inflows.
The Financing sector attracted $2.10 billion (37.18%), while Production/Manufacturing received a modest $129.92 million (2.30%).
Source countries were concentrated, with the United Kingdom accounting for $3.68 billion (65.26%), reflecting strong UK-based portfolio positioning.
South Africa and Mauritius followed with $501.29 million (8.88%) and $394.51 million (6.99%), respectively.
GIK/APA