Nigerian All-Share Index breaks 194,000 barrier
The Nigerian All-Share Index rose 0.99% to 194,989.8 points on 20 February 2026, marking a 1,916.2-point gain from the previous day and breaching the 194,000 psychological barrier. This pushed the year-to-date return to over 25%. Key gainers included Fidson (+10% to N11.00), Jaiz Bank (+10% to N11.00), and MPF Microfinance Bank (+10% to N6.27). Market volume was lower at 820 million shares compared to 898 million shares the previous day. The index is now testing 195,000 and 196,000 levels but is currently overbought. Top losers were Secure Electronic Technology (-10% to N1.62) and Sovereign Trust Insurance (-9.73% to N2.32). Market capitalization reached N125.1 trillion, led by Zenith Bank (N3.7 billion) and MTN Nigeria (N2.4 billion). SWOOTs like Lafarge (+8.25%) and Nestle (+6.9%) showed strong performance, while FUGAZ banking stocks like First HoldCo (+3.85%) remained positive. The market is up 17.9% month-to-date, potentially outperforming January's 6.27% gain.