Nigeria’s currency, the naira, remained largely stable against the United States dollar at around ₦1,420/$ in the official market during mid-week trading, signaling growing confidence in the 2026 macroeconomic outlook projected by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The calm performance across both official and parallel markets suggests easing pressure on the local currency as economic activities for the year gradually gather momentum nationwide.
Official Market Shows Calm Movement
At the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), the naira recorded only marginal movements while trading within a narrow and controlled range.
The currency opened at approximately ₦1,419.29 to the dollar before settling around ₦1,419.77 during early price discovery.
This was closely in line with the previous session’s closing rate near the ₦1,420 mark, reflecting minimal volatility.
Analysts attribute the steady performance to improved foreign exchange supply and the CBN’s sustained push for transparency in price discovery. Market confidence has also been strengthened by expectations that Nigeria’s external reserves could climb above $50 billion later in the year.
Parallel Market Holds Within Range
In the parallel market, the dollar traded slightly higher but remained within a manageable spread. Across major cities including Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, exchange rates ranged between ₦1,480 and ₦1,485 per dollar.
Bureau de Change operators reported moderate demand driven mainly by travel needs and small business transactions, without the speculative pressure that previously fueled sharp swings. Improved diaspora remittances and more predictable bank inflows have also helped reduce stress on the informal market.
Investor Confidence on the Rise
Financial analysts say the absence of panic buying reflects renewed trust in policy direction and economic planning. Unlike previous January periods characterized by volatility, the foreign exchange market has so far remained relatively calm.
This shift is largely linked to clearer communication from monetary authorities and expectations of stronger macroeconomic fundamentals in 2026.
Outlook Remains Cautiously Positive
Looking ahead, experts remain cautiously optimistic about the naira’s performance for the rest of the year. Inflation is projected to ease toward 12.94 percent, while real GDP growth is expected to approach 4.49 percent.
Improved crude oil production levels and a projected balance of payments surplus are also providing underlying support for the local currency. However, analysts warn that global oil prices and domestic output consistency will remain critical factors influencing foreign exchange liquidity in the months ahead.
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