The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) closed mixed on Friday as investors selectively bought into insurance, consumer goods, oil and gas, and industrial stocks, while several banking and growth-board counters came under pressure.
Trading remained concentrated in a handful of liquid stocks, with many equities recording little or no movement during the session. This pointed to cautious investor participation rather than a broad-based market rally.
RT Briscoe was the standout gainer, attracting strong buying interest, while Fortis Global Insurance and Trans-Nationwide Express also recorded notable advances. Aradel Holdings and Cadbury Nigeria were among the other stocks that gained ground.
On the losing side, International Energy Insurance recorded the sharpest decline, followed by Omatek Ventures and Caverton Offshore. Several other banking, insurance and smaller-cap stocks also closed lower.
Financial stocks remained mixed, with some smaller insurers and banks attracting buying interest while major names such as Zenith Bank, Fidelity Bank and FCMB faced selling pressure.
Consumer stocks were relatively stronger, supported by gains in Nestlé Nigeria, Honeywell Flour and Cadbury, although some major names in the sector declined. Oil and gas stocks also saw selective interest, led by gains in Oando and Aradel Holdings.
In terms of activity, trading was concentrated in major financial names and other highly liquid stocks. Seplat Energy, NGX Group, First HoldCo, Aradel Holdings and MTN Nigeria were among the stocks that attracted significant naira turnover.
Overall, the session reflected a cautious and selective market, with investors rotating into specific stocks rather than taking broad positions across the exchange.
