By Our Correspondent

National News – The Nigerian Exchange Limited recorded a remarkable surge in market activity last week, delivering a massive N8.66 trillion gain to investors.

The rally, driven by increased trading volumes and strong investor confidence, occurred during the trading week ending April 19, 2026, in Nigeria’s capital market.

According to official figures, market capitalisation rose by 6.60 per cent, climbing from N131.166 trillion to N139.827 trillion, while the All-Share Index advanced by 6.57 per cent to close at 217,167.57 points.

The performance was fueled by heightened participation across key sectors, particularly financial services, which dominated trading activities.

Investors exchanged a total of 3.588 billion shares valued at N195.313 billion in 254,553 deals, surpassing the previous week’s figures.

The financial services sector alone accounted for over 69 per cent of total volume, highlighting its pivotal role in driving market momentum.

Top-performing stocks during the week included major players such as Access Holdings Plc and Zenith Bank Plc, alongside other notable gainers like Ecobank Transnational Incorporated and Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc.

These equities collectively contributed significantly to the surge, with strong price appreciation reflecting renewed investor optimism.

Despite the bullish trend, some stocks recorded losses, including Coronation Insurance Plc and Honeywell Flour Mills Plc, indicating pockets of profit-taking and market corrections.

Overall, 61 equities gained, while 36 declined, and 49 remained unchanged, showing a broadly positive sentiment across the exchange.

Additionally, the NGX activated trading codes for rights issues from selected insurance firms, enabling qualified shareholders to participate and expand their holdings.

This move further enhanced liquidity and market engagement during the review period.

The week’s impressive performance underscores growing confidence in Nigeria’s capital market, driven by strategic investments, sectoral strength, and improved trading activity.

Analysts believe sustained participation and policy stability could maintain this upward trajectory in the coming weeks.