Nigeria’s capital importation surged to $5.64 billion in the first half of 2025, reflecting renewed investor confidence and gradual economic recovery, according to new data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The figure represents a 17.2% increase compared to the $4.81 billion recorded in the second half of 2024, with portfolio investments and foreign direct investments leading the rebound.
The rise in capital importation is seen by analysts as a vote of confidence in the administration’s recent economic reforms, including foreign exchange unification, infrastructure development, and renewed efforts to tackle insecurity.
“This uptick in capital inflows is a sign that Nigeria is regaining credibility among global investors,” said Dr. Fatima Obasi, an economist at the Centre for Economic Policy Studies. “While the road ahead is still challenging, investors are beginning to respond positively to policy stability and improved macroeconomic coordination.”
According to the NBS report, portfolio investments accounted for $2.45 billion of the total inflow, driven largely by interest in government bonds and equity markets. Foreign direct investment (FDI) stood at $1.92 billion, while other investments such as loans and trade credits totaled $1.27 billion.
The United Kingdom emerged as the top source of capital inflow, followed by the United States, Singapore, and the Netherlands. Lagos State remained the preferred destination, attracting over 60% of the total capital importation, followed by Abuja and Rivers State.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, welcomed the report, describing it as “evidence that Nigeria is once again open for business.”
“Our focus has been on rebuilding investor trust, stabilising the exchange rate, and creating a clear path to sustainable growth. This report affirms that our approach is working,” Edun said during a press briefing in Abuja.
The minister also noted that sectors such as manufacturing, fintech, and telecommunications were among the top beneficiaries of the inflows, underscoring Nigeria’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and services.
However, economists have urged caution, warning that sustained growth in capital importation will depend on the country’s ability to address lingering structural challenges.
“Investor confidence is fragile. Nigeria must stay the course with reform and improve the ease of doing business,” said Obasi.
With the next half of the year underway, the government says it will continue implementing policies that promote stability, attract investment, and unlock Nigeria’s vast economic potential.
