How to Buy Shares on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX) in 2026: Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide

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LagosPolice

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Oct 14, 2020
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Investing in the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) is one of the most powerful ways to grow your wealth in Nigeria — even if you’re a complete beginner. With the right steps and a long-term mindset, you can start owning shares of major Nigerian companies in just a few days.
he stock market is a platform where investors buy and sell shares of publicly traded companies. When you own a share, you own a small piece of that company. Corporate success means your share price could rise, and many companies also pay dividends — regular profit distributions to shareholders.

You cannot buy shares directly on the NGX — you must use a licensed stockbroker.

Choose a broker that is:

  • Licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission
  • Has a user-friendly platform
  • Offers good customer support
Popular brokers include:
Meristem Securities, Chapel Hill Denham, CardinalStone Partners, Stanbic IBTC Stockbrokers and others.

Step 3: Open a Brokerage & CSCS Account​

Your broker will help you open:

  • A Trading Account — where you place buy/sell orders
  • A Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) account — this is where your shares are held electronically
You’ll need standard identification documents (like NIN, valid ID) and a bank account linked for funding.


Step 4: Fund Your Account​

Transfer funds from your Nigerian bank account to your brokerage account. Some brokers allow you to start with as little as ₦10,000. Always use official NGX-accredited brokers and never send funds outside regulated channels.


Step 5: Choose the Right Stocks​

Before buying, it’s vital to research companies. Consider factors like:

  • Earnings history
  • Dividend payments
  • Market position
  • Industry prospects
Some blue-chip stocks in Nigeria often considered by investors include MTN Nigeria, Dangote Cement, Zenith Bank, GTCO, and Nestlé Nigeria.


Step 6: Place Your Trade​

Once you decide what to buy:

  1. Log into your broker’s platform
  2. Search for the company’s ticker symbol
  3. Enter the number of shares
  4. Choose the order type (e.g., Market Order or Limit Order)
  5. Confirm the order
Once matched with a seller, you officially own the shares.


Step 7: Monitor and Grow​

Don’t panic during short-term dips — the stock market is volatile. Focus on your long-term strategy, reinvest dividends, and keep learning from financial publications and data sources.


The Nigerian stock market offers real opportunities if approached with knowledge and discipline. Start small, stay informed, and watch your portfolio grow over time.