UK accounts for $2.94bn of Nigeria’s capital importation in Q3 2025

The United Kingdom was the leading source of foreign capital into Nigeria in the third quarter of 2025, contributing $2.94 billion – equivalent to 48.80 per cent of total inflows – according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Capital importation data for Q2 and Q3 2025, released by the NBS on Monday via its official X handle, show a significant concentration of inflows from the UK during the period under review.

The United States came second with $950.47 million, accounting for 15.80 per cent of the total, while South Africa recorded $773.95 million, representing 12.87 per cent.

Other contributors included Mauritius with $451.46 million and the Netherlands with $282.90 million.

The NBS noted that the figures were compiled from data provided by the Central Bank of Nigeria and reflect fresh capital inflows through the banking system. The report excludes reinvested earnings and other components typically classified under foreign direct investment.

The uptick in capital inflows in Q3 points to renewed investor confidence, particularly among portfolio investors targeting money market instruments and government securities.

Despite the rebound, economic analysts observe that the dominance of short-term portfolio flows over foreign direct investment suggests that longer-term, productive investments remain subdued.

They stress that while portfolio inflows can boost liquidity and stabilise markets, sustainable economic expansion will depend on attracting more durable, long-term capital into key sectors of the economy.