Top 10 Nigerian companies with the largest cash in bank – H1 2026

In the first half of 2026, Nigerian listed companies collectively held a substantial N3.65 trillion in cash and cash equivalents, marking a significant 58.10% increase from N2.31 trillion in the same period last year. This rise in corporate liquidity, as compiled by Nairametrics Research from unaudited financial statements, provides a clear view of a company's ability to meet obligations swiftly, invest in growth, or endure unexpected challenges.

At the top of the list is Presco Plc, which saw its cash reserves drop by 53.57% to N129.86 billion, down from N279.69 billion at the end of 2025. Despite this decline, Presco remains well-capitalized with a quick ratio of 2.78x, though this is a decrease from 3.82x at year-end 2025. The company generated N126.48 billion in operating profit, a modest 2.56% decline from N129.80 billion in H1 2025, and N82.27 billion in profit after tax, a 7.27% drop from N88.72 billion.

BAU Foods Plc stands out with the largest increase in cash reserves, growing by 165.27% to N149.52 billion, up from N56.36 billion at the end of 2025. This represents the most substantial cash build among the top ten. The company's profitability remained robust, with operating profit increasing by 12.53% to N320.52 billion, profit before tax rising 14.04% to N314.88 billion, and profit after tax growing 12.38% to N292.27 billion.

Net cash from operating activities expanded by 12.58% to N162.18 billion, while the quick ratio improved to 1.84x, reflecting better liquidity due to higher cash balances and reduced inventory levels.

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc holds N168.80 billion in cash and cash equivalents, down 12.15% from N192.15 billion in 2025. The construction company showed improved operating profitability, with operating profit rising by 84.23% to N17.38 billion and profit before tax up by 78.62% to N23.52 billion. However, profit after tax fell by 14.70% to N6.06 billion, primarily due to tax impacts.

The company's net cash from operating activities remained negative at N35.23 billion, but this was an improvement from the negative N63.84 billion in H1 2025, indicating better working capital management amidst project-driven cash flows. The quick ratio of 2.38x, while down from 3.03x at year-end 2025, remains comfortably above one, signaling adequate short-term liquidity.