Nigeria climbs to eighth in Bloomberg Africa investment risk ranking

Nigeria has risen four places to eighth in the 2026 Bloomberg Economics Investment Risk-O-Meter, making it the largest climber among 19 assessed African economies. The improvement is attributed to gains in economic strength, fiscal strength, and external vulnerability, driven by economic reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Key reforms cited include the removal of the petrol subsidy, the liberalization of the foreign exchange market, and changes to electricity tariffs. While these measures aim to improve fiscal sustainability and investor confidence, they have also contributed to increased costs for food, energy, and transportation, impacting households and businesses.

In the overall ranking, Mauritius holds the top position, followed by South Africa, which dropped one place from its previous leading position. Other notable movements include Botswana, which fell two places. Nigeria’s ascent places it ahead of Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Namibia, despite ongoing challenges regarding infrastructure, public debt, and institutional governance.