NGX Group Reports 170% Profit Surge, Declares N1.30 Interim Dividend for H1 2026
The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) Plc has announced an interim dividend of N1.30 per ordinary share for the six-month period ending June 30, 2026. The payout reflects the company’s strong earnings performance and improved cash generation during the first half of the year, according to a statement released by the group on Sunday.
The board’s decision to approve the dividend also signals confidence in the sustainability of the group’s growth trajectory, while preserving its ability to continue investing in technology, market development, and strategic opportunities across the capital market value chain.
Revenue and Income Growth
NGX Group’s revenue surged 118% to N17.60 billion in the first half of 2026, compared with N8.08 billion recorded in the same period of 2025. Total income rose 96% to N19.34 billion, driven largely by increased market activity.
Transaction fees, a key revenue driver, jumped 169% to N13.34 billion from N4.96 billion. Listing fees grew 59% to N2.38 billion, while technology income increased 19% to N447.86 million.
Profitability and Operating Leverage
Operating profit rose 155% to N10.62 billion from N4.16 billion, reflecting strong operating leverage as income growth outpaced the increase in operating expenses. The group’s share of profit from equity-accounted investees climbed 130% to N4.14 billion, largely due to the strong performance of Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc.
Profit before tax increased 170% to N14.76 billion from N5.46 billion, while profit after tax rose 146% to N10.36 billion from N4.22 billion in the corresponding period of 2025.
Balance Sheet Strength
As of June 30, 2026, total assets stood at N75.87 billion. Shareholders’ equity increased to N60.49 billion from N55.20 billion at the end of 2025, indicating retained earnings growth and a solid capital base.
Executive Commentary
Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, Chairman of NGX Group, said the board’s approval of the N1.30 interim dividend underscores the strength of the group’s first-half performance and confidence in its 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,” he said. “The Board remains committed to balancing attractive returns to shareholders with continued investment in infrastructure, technology and strategic initiatives required to deepen Nigeria’s capital market and position NGX Group for sustainable growth.”
Group Managing Director Temi Popoola attributed the results to higher transaction activity, increased listing income, and stronger contributions from investee companies. “Our first-half results were 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,” Popoola said. “We remain focused on sustaining this momentum by deepening market liquidity, expanding investor participation, accelerating the development of technology-enabled products and building a more diversified financial market infrastructure group. The N1.30 interim dividend reflects both the progress made and our confidence in the Group’s capacity to deliver sustainable long-term value.”
Dividend Eligibility and Timeline
Shareholders whose names appear in the Register of Members on the applicable qualification date will be entitled to the interim dividend of N1.30 per ordinary share. The group stated that the qualification date, closure period, and payment date will be announced in line with the approved corporate action timetable and applicable regulatory requirements.
