By Peter Egwuatu
The Nigerian Exchange, NGX Group Plc, has announced an interim dividend of N1.30 per ordinary share for the six months ended 30 June 2026, following a record first-half financial performance.
According to a statement made available to Vanguard, the NGX Group recorded revenue of N17.60 billion in the first half of 2026, up 118% from N8.08 billion in the corresponding period of 2025, while total income grew 96% to N19.34 billion.
The performance was driven principally by increased market activity, with transaction fees rising by 169% to N13.34 billion from N4.96 billion. Listing fees increased by 59% to N2.38 billion, while technology income rose by 19% to N447.86 million.
Operating profit increased by 155% to N10.62 billion, compared with N4.16 billion in the corresponding period. This reflected strong operating leverage, as growth in income significantly outpaced the increase in operating expenses.
The Group also recorded a 130% increase in its share of profit from equity-accounted investees to N4.14 billion, driven primarily by the strong performance of Central Securities Clearing System Plc.
Consequently, profit before tax increased by 170% to N14.76 billion, from N5.46 billion in H1 2025, while profit after tax rose by 146% to N10.36 billion, compared with N4.22 billion in the prior-year period.
Commenting on the results and dividend, the Group Chairman of NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, said: “The Board’s approval of an interim dividend of N1.30 per share reflects the strength of NGX Group’s first-half performance and our confidence in the Group’s long-term prospects. We are encouraged by the significant growth recorded across the business and by the increasing contribution of companies within the Group’s investment portfolio. The Board remains committed to balancing attractive returns to shareholders with continued investment in the infrastructure, technology and strategic initiatives required to deepen Nigeria’s capital market and position NGX Group for sustainable growth.”
Also commenting on the performance, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola, said: “Our first-half results demonstrate the strength and scalability of NGX Group’s business model. Revenue growth was supported by significantly higher transaction activity, increased listing income and stronger contributions from our investee companies, while disciplined execution enabled us to translate this growth into substantially improved profitability.”
