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Nigerian Companies Flush With Cash as Operating Inflows Hit Record Levels

Published by Tope Fakinlede on August 15th, 2025.

Nigerian Companies Flush With Cash as Operating Inflows Hit Record Levels

After two challenging years marked by currency volatility, rising finance costs, and steep foreign exchange losses, many Nigerian companies are experiencing a remarkable financial turnaround in 2025.

Thanks to a more stable naira, several firms have not only escaped the grip of FX losses but are now posting foreign exchange gains—boosting headline profits significantly in the first half of the year.

However, beyond profit margins, the true measure of a company’s financial health lies in its ability to generate cash from core business operations. In this regard, 2025 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for Nigeria’s corporate giants.

According to analysis by Nairametrics, five major listed companies—MTN Nigeria, Dangote Cement, Seplat Energy, Nestlé Nigeria, and BUA Cement—have reported a combined N2.92 trillion in net operating cash flow for H1 2025. That figure represents a staggering 140% increase compared to the same period in 2024 and even surpasses their full-year 2024 performance by 14%.

These strong cash flows are not just a sign of profitability—they’re enabling companies to pursue capital investments, reduce debt, and return value to shareholders through dividends. Analysts suggest that improved operational liquidity is reinforcing the long-term financial foundation of these businesses, making them more attractive to investors.

During the same period, these five firms collectively posted N1.21 trillion in profit after tax—a dramatic swing from the N403 billion loss they posted in the first half of 2024.

Still, not every company is following the same trajectory. While BUA Cement reported a solid profit after tax of N181 billion in H1 2025, its operating cash flow lagged behind that figure. This discrepancy may signal underlying issues such as elevated working capital needs, slower collections, or other operational inefficiencies.

Even so, the broader trend remains clear: operational cash flow has become the key benchmark for financial strength in Nigeria’s rebounding economy. From MTN’s revitalized balance sheet to Seplat’s robust energy revenues and Nestlé’s quiet resurgence, these firms are demonstrating the power of consistent cash generation.

For investors, this influx of liquidity presents fresh opportunities—whether through dividend payouts, share price appreciation, or exposure to companies poised to ramp up growth investments.

The sustainability of this cash boom remains to be seen as the second half of 2025 unfolds, but for now, Nigerian corporates are sending a strong message: in today’s economy, it’s not just about profit—it’s about the cash behind it.