Writing Nigeria Set for Return to FTSE Russell Frontier Market Status

By Nigerian Niger Delta Reporters

LAGOS — Nigeria is set to return to the FTSE Russell Frontier Market classification on September 21, 2026, in a development expected to increase international attention on the country's capital market.

FTSE Russell confirmed that Nigeria's reclassification from the unclassified category to Frontier Market status will take effect when trading opens on September 21.

The development follows improvements in foreign-exchange liquidity, capital repatriation and market accessibility.

The global index provider also reviewed concerns surrounding Nigeria's transition from a T+2 to T+1 settlement system before confirming the reclassification.

Nigeria had previously been removed from the Frontier Market classification following difficulties faced by foreign investors in accessing foreign exchange and repatriating investment proceeds.

Market authorities now believe the return could help attract more international investors and deepen liquidity on the Nigerian Exchange.

For Nigerian companies, increased international visibility could potentially create new opportunities for raising capital.

The development is being closely watched by investors ahead of the September implementation date.

Nigerian Niger Delta Reporters will provide further reports as Nigeria's return to the international frontier-market index approaches.