If you’ve ever wondered where to put your money in Nigeria, you’re not alone. With inflation rising and the naira losing value, more people are turning to the stock market as a way to grow wealth. The truth is, many of the best Nigerian stocks to invest in are right in front of us — in industries we use every day.
But here’s the thing: investing in stocks doesn’t have to feel like rocket science. Even if you’re brand new, you can start small, learn the ropes, and grow your portfolio over time. In this guide, we’ll break down the best Nigerian stocks to invest in , what makes them promising, and how you can confidently begin investing — no matter your starting point. By the end, you’ll see how ordinary Nigerians can tap into extraordinary opportunities.
Why Invest in Nigerian Stocks?
Investing in the stock market is not just for the rich. With as little as ₦1,000, you can start buying shares of profitable companies. Stocks give you two major benefits:
- Capital appreciation – When stock prices go up, you can sell at a profit.
- Dividends – Many Nigerian companies pay dividends to shareholders yearly, giving you a steady income. meaning you can earn income while your investment grows.
- Population growth: Nigeria’s young, growing population fuels demand for banking, food, telecoms, and energy services.
- Resilient companies: Despite economic uncertainty, leading Nigerian companies in banking, telecoms, and consumer goods have continued to post strong earnings.
If you’ve ever dreamed of building wealth from scratch, the stock market can be a smart way to start. (For more on this, check out How to Build Wealth from Scratch: Your Step-by-Step Guide).
Best Nigerian Stocks to Invest in
Let’s look at the companies making waves and why they deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. MTN Nigeria (Telecommunications)
MTN continues to dominate Nigeria’s telecom industry with over 70 million subscribers. When we talk about data and airtime, MTN is always in the conversation. As more Nigerians rely on data for work, streaming, and social media, MTN’s revenue streams keep expanding.
- Why it’s worth watching: Rising demand for data, fintech services, and mobile money growth.
- Dividends: Known for consistent dividend payouts
Yes, MTN has faced challenges like forex issues, but the long-term growth shows why this stock remains a strong choice. If you believe in Nigeria’s need for constant internet access and communication, MTN is worth considering. In early 2024, MTN traded around ₦200. By late 2025, the price had climbed to over ₦430 — more than 117% growth in one year.
👉 Pro Tip: If you’re serious about growing wealth, you should also explore how to achieve wealth through passive income. Combining stocks with passive income streams multiplies.
2. Presco, Okomu Oil, Cadbury(Food & Agriculture )
No matter the economy, Nigerians must eat. That’s why food-related stocks are always reliable.
Presco Plc
- Specializes in palm oil production.
- Returned over 211% growth in 2025 alone.
- Average buying price: ₦562. Current price: about ₦1,480.
Okomu Oil
- Another palm oil giant.
- Gained about 129% in 2025.
- Palm oil demand goes beyond cooking — it’s used in soaps, cosmetics, and even industrial products.
Cadbury Nigeria
- Known for TomTom, chocolates, and beverages.
- Average price bought: ₦21. Current value: ₦60.
- Nearly 200% increase.
Food stocks remind us that essential industries keep growing, no matter the economy.
3.GTCO, Zenith, UBA, Access Bank ( Banking sector)
The Nigerian banking sector remains one of the most consistent investment areas. Almost everyone has a bank account, and these institutions generate billions in profits.
- Zenith Bank – 52% growth. Current price: ~₦70. Zenith Bank remains a top-tier financial institution, respected for its stability, profitability, and shareholder-friendly policies.
- GTCO (GTBank Holding) – 68% growth in 2025. Current price: ~₦96.
- Access Bank – 14% growth. Current price: ~₦27.
- UBA – 41% growth. Current price: ~₦48.
Notice something? Many of these strong-performing banks trade for under ₦100 per share. That means even with little capital, you can start investing.
- Why it’s worth watching: Strong balance sheet, high customer base, and efficient management.
- Dividends: Reliable and generous dividend track record.
Banks in Nigeria are set to benefit from financial inclusion initiatives and growing digital adoption.
4. Dangote Cement, Lafarge–(Cement & Industrial)
With Nigeria’s massive infrastructure and housing needs, which make them constantly building and Cement is at the heart of it that plays a central role in fuelling construction growth.
- Dangote Cement may fluctuate, but in 2025 alone, it paid out ₦500 billion in dividends to investors. As government projects ramp up, Dangote Cement’s position strengthens, making it a defensive yet growth-oriented stock.
- Lafarge Africa remains another strong player in the cement industry that Offers solid dividend returns.
Dividend-focused investors love these stocks because they provide steady pay-outs.
5. BUA Foods (Consumer Goods)
From flour to sugar, BUA Foods caters to everyday essentials. With inflation pushing up food prices, companies that produce staples tend to perform well.
- Why it’s worth watching: Strong market demand, expansion into new food products.
- Dividends: Attractive payout for investors seeking cash flow.
Food companies often provide a safety net in uncertain times, since demand for essentials rarely drops.
6. Seplat, Ardova, Transcorp Power – (Energy & Oil )
Nigeria’s energy demand continues to grow, and these companies benefit.
- Seplat Energy – Paid over ₦104 billion in dividends.
- Ardova – Paid about ₦95 billion.
- Transcorp Power – A fast-growing company in power generation.
Oil and energy companies are cyclical, but dividend investors often keep them in their portfolio.
- Why it’s worth watching: Diversifying beyond crude oil, expanding into cleaner energy.
- Dividends: Stable payments with potential growth.
Energy stocks can be volatile, but these companies strategy may pay off long-term.
How to Start Investing in Nigerian Stocks
If you’re new, don’t worry getting started with stocks is easier than you think. Here’s a simple roadmap:
- Open a CSCS account: This is your digital record of stock ownership in Nigeria. It allows you to buy and hold Nigerian stocks officially
- Choose a stockbroker or app: Many platforms like Trove, Bamboo, or Chaka make it easy to buy Nigerian stocks online.
- Start small: You don’t need millions to begin — even ₦10,000–₦50,000 can get you started.
- Diversify: Don’t put all your money into one stock. Spread across sectors like banking, food, telecom, cement, and energy.
- Think long-term: Short-term volatility happens, but long-term investors tend to win. So don’t panic when prices dip; remember why you invested.
If you’re worried about not having much experience, don’t panic. Read this guide: How to Invest in Nigerian Stocks (NGX Guide) the mindset applies to investing too: start small, build experience, and grow.
Dividend-Paying Stocks in Nigeria
For investors looking for regular payouts, here are some of the top dividend-paying companies in 2025:
- Dangote Cement – ₦500 billion in dividends.
- Seplat Energy – ₦104 billion.
- Ardova – ₦95 billion.
- Okomu Oil – Strong dividend record.
- FBN Holdings – Consistently pays dividends.
Dividend investing is a smart way to generate passive income while still holding your stocks for long-term growth.
Tips for Picking the Right Stocks
- Look for dividend history: Companies that pay dividends consistently are usually financially sound.
- Check sector performance: Banking, telecoms, consumer goods, and energy are Nigeria’s strongest sectors.
- Watch earnings reports: Quarterly and annual reports give clues on company health.
- Stay updated: Follow financial news to spot trends.
If you’re serious about boosting your financial game, you’ll also want to sharpen your skills. Check out 4 High-Income Skills That Can Change Your Life and Boost Your Online Income. The more skills you have, the better you can invest, earn, and grow.
Common Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner Investor
- Chasing hype: Don’t buy a stock just because everyone is talking about it.
- Going all-in: Never invest money you can’t afford to lose.
- Ignoring diversification: One bad stock shouldn’t wipe out your savings.
- Panic selling: Prices go up and down. Hold your ground if the fundamentals are strong.
- Skipping research: Always check a company’s financials and market position before investing.
For more money-smart strategies, see How to Save More Money: Simple Hacks for Financial Freedom.
Final Thoughts
Investing in the Nigerian stock market in 2025 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with stable, dividend-paying companies like MTN, Zenith Bank, Dangote Cement, BUA Foods, and Seplat Energy. Diversify your portfolio, invest what you can afford, and think long-term.
At the end of the day, wealth-building isn’t just about picking stocks. It’s about your mindset. The more you learn, the smarter your financial decisions become. If you’re ready to elevate your money mindset, read How Changing Your Mindset Can Transform Your Financial Life.
Whether you’re focused on capital growth or dividends, the Nigerian Stock Exchange offers countless opportunities for both beginners and seasoned investors. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your wealth grow. This year can be your year to grow, even if you’re just starting out. Take that first step — your future self will thank you.
