The United Kingdom has emerged as Nigeria’s largest source of capital inflow in the first quarter of 2025, contributing a staggering ₦5.5 trillion, according to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The NBS report, released this week, highlights a resurgence in foreign capital entering Nigeria, driven largely by renewed investor confidence, economic reforms, and strategic partnerships. The UK’s dominant position reaffirms its longstanding economic ties with Nigeria and signals a potential shift in foreign investment patterns.
Total capital importation into Nigeria for Q1 stood at ₦7.6 trillion, with the UK accounting for approximately 72% of the total figure. The capital inflow was primarily directed into sectors such as banking, finance, and telecommunications, which have shown strong growth potential amid ongoing structural adjustments and exchange rate liberalization.
Analysts attribute the UK’s strong showing to policy clarity from the Nigerian government, improved forex market conditions, and incentives aimed at foreign direct investors.
“This significant capital injection from the UK not only underscores renewed investor confidence but also reflects Nigeria’s improving macroeconomic environment,” said Bola Akinwunmi, a Lagos-based economist.
The United States followed as the second-largest source, contributing ₦900 billion, while South Africa ranked third with ₦650 billion.
Despite the positive trends, experts caution that sustaining capital inflow will require policy consistency, enhanced security, and further improvements in the ease of doing business.
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