The nation’s first-ever domestic US dollar bond issued last year has been named West Africa Deal of the Year at the 2025 Global Banking & Markets Africa Awards, following a highly successful issuance that raised $917 million.
Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, received the award at the Bonds, Loans & ESG Capital Markets Conference in Cape Town, South Africa.
She however, formally presented it to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Mr Wale Edun on Thursday in his office in Abuja.
A statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations of the Ministry, Mohammed Manga, quoted Edun as saying: “This award marks an important step in our ambition to position Nigeria—and Lagos—as a leading international financial centre.
“It also reflects growing confidence in the expertise and resilience of Nigeria’s financial system, which has once again delivered under challenging global conditions,” the Minister affirmed.
Announced by the Debt Management Office (DMO) on August 19, 2024, the bond initially targeted $500 million but was oversubscribed by 180%. With a five-year tenor, it was listed on both the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and FMDQ Securities Exchange.
The landmark issuance attracted a broad spectrum of investors, including local institutions, diaspora Nigerians, and international players.
Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) served as Global Coordinator.
