The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) closed mixed on Thursday, August 20, 2026, with selling pressure concentrated in insurance stocks. Of the equities traded, 32 declined compared with 15 gainers, while most stocks closed unchanged.
Market activity remained concentrated in a few names, with ₦30.68 billion worth of shares traded during the session.
Haldane McCall led the gainers, followed by Trans-Nationwide Express and McNichols. Nigerian Breweries, AIICO Insurance and Jaiz Bank also recorded modest gains.
Insurance stocks dominated the losing side. International Energy Insurance, Coronation Insurance and Fortis Global Insurance all fell sharply, while Ava Capital and Zichis Agro Allied Industries also recorded significant declines.
Fortis Global Insurance stood out for its exceptionally high trading activity, accounting for more than 2.5 billion shares traded during the session. Aradel Holdings and Seplat Energy led activity by value, reflecting continued investor interest in the oil and gas sector despite declines in Aradel.
Banking stocks were generally weaker, with UBA, FCMB and Access Holdings among the notable decliners.
The session points to cautious investor sentiment, with selling pressure particularly evident in insurance and selected banking stocks. Investors will be watching whether the weakness broadens into the next session and whether heavy trading in Fortis Global Insurance continues.
