Nigeria’s mutual fund market posted strong gains in the first quarter of 2026, with several smaller and mid-sized equity funds outperforming larger, more established players. Data from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) indicates that most equity mutual funds recorded returns between 28 and 40 per cent, driven by a bullish rally on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX). However, a number of relatively smaller funds outpaced the market, delivering returns well above that range. Below are the 10 top-performing equity mutual funds in Nigeria for Q1 2026:1. Notably, the largest equity fund in Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund, posted a 29.76 per cent return—trailing several smaller competitors.

Source: Nigerian Tribune April 12, 2026 17:15 UTC