The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced new exchange rates following the naira’s first loss against the US dollar in seven days. The official exchange rate was adjusted to ₦1,497.11 per dollar, reflecting a 0.24% depreciation from the previous ₦1,500.73. This marks a slight setback after a period of relative stability, as the CBN continues its efforts to manage currency fluctuations amid a volatile foreign exchange market.
Alongside the official rate adjustment, the CBN also revised the exchange rate for customs duties to ₦1,491.99 per dollar. This revision aims to ease pressures on importers by reducing the cost burden and ensuring smoother cargo clearance at Nigeria’s ports, an important move to support trade and economic activities.
The naira’s dip follows days of incremental gains driven by CBN’s reforms, including the implementation of a market-driven exchange rate system and the automation of foreign exchange trades. These reforms are designed to improve transparency, reduce distortions, and stabilize the currency in the long run.
Financial analysts remain cautiously optimistic despite the recent depreciation. They highlight the CBN’s active intervention policies and reforms as key to maintaining the naira’s stability. These include boosting foreign currency inflows and enhancing investor confidence—factors critical for currency strength.
The CBN emphasizes its continued commitment to policies that promote economic growth and currency resilience. While short-term fluctuations are expected in any dynamic market, the bank’s strategic approach is focused on building a stronger, more transparent foreign exchange environment in Nigeria, aimed at ensuring sustainable stability for the naira in the months and years ahead.