The Nigerian Stock Exchange was formerly known as Lagos Stock Exchange. The name was later changed in the year 1977. The headquarters of Nigerian Stock Exchange is located in the capital city of Lagos. Other branches are located in the cities of Kaduna, Port Harcourt, Kano, Onitsha, Ibadan, Abuja and Yola.

One of the unique distinctions of the Nigerian Stock Exchange is its automatic trading system. Other features include incorporation of Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), establishment of Trade Guarantee Fund (TGF) and Cross Border listing. Central Securities Clearing System handles clearing, settlement and delivery of transactions of the exchange. The Trade Guarantee Fund settles transactions from overtrading and achieves T+3 settlement cycle. Under Cross Border Listing, the Nigerian Stock Exchange has signed MOUs with the International Stock Exchange of London, and other stock exchanges of Nairobi, Egypt, Johannesburg and Ghana. Based on its returns on investment, the Nigerian Stock Exchange has been recognized as one of the leading stock exchanges in the world. 

The principal market index in the Nigerian Stock Exchange is the Nigerian Stock Exchange All Shares Index in which all the listings are incorporated. The stock exchange operates from Monday to Friday between 11.00 AM to 1.00 PM. Primary transactions include corporate funds, shares and government bonds.

Lagos Stock Exchange is an affiliate member of various international organizations including the World Federation of Exchanges (FIBV), African Stock Exchanges Association (ASEA) and International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).