Business operations are surrounded by different degrees of uncertainties (risks) ranging from market risks, financial risks and operating risks. This study has chosen to investigate one of the components of the risks (market risk) and to ascertain how the risks affect the activities of firms in Nigeria. Four hypotheses were formulated in line with the objectives of the study. The study employed causal research design and used secondary data. The research covers the twelve (12) firms listed under Oil and Gas sector on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Secondary data were collected from Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and the financial statements of the firms which spanned from 2014 to 2018. The data were analysed with descriptive statistics, correlation and multiple regression analysis. The results therefrom indicate that exchange rate has significant effect on both ROA and ROE of Oil and Gas firms. Additionally interest rate has significant effect on ROE and insignificant effect on ROA. More results show that commodity price change has no significant effect on both ROA and ROE, also equity price change has no significant effect on ROA and ROE of firms in Oil and Gas sector in Nigeria. The study recommends among other things that the firms should adopt the use of hedging to control exchange rate changes and government should maintain a low interest rate that will aid firms increase their profitability.
Keywords: Exchange Rate, Market Risk, Oil price
