The Naira has remained fairly stable against major foreign currencies, with both official and black market exchange rates showing only slight changes. Here’s a breakdown of today’s exchange rates and what they mean for Nigerians.
Official Exchange Rates
According to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the exchange rates today are:
- US Dollar (USD) – ₦1,500.41
- British Pound Sterling (GBP) – ₦1,868.76
- Euro (EUR) – ₦1,557.13
These rates apply to transactions processed through banks and official forex channels. However, not everyone has access to forex at these rates due to CBN restrictions.
Parrarel Market Exchange Rates
In the parallel market (also known as the black market), where most Nigerians buy foreign currency, the rates are higher:
- US Dollar (USD) – ₦1,570
- British Pound Sterling (GBP) – ₦1,900
- Euro (EUR) – ₦1,606.65
The black market rates fluctuate more due to demand and supply pressures, especially as businesses and individuals struggle to access forex through official channels.
Why Is the Naira Stable?
Experts believe the CBN‘s efforts to manage the forex market are helping to keep the Naira from crashing further. However, the fact that black market rates are still higher shows that demand for dollars is strong, and many businesses still prefer sourcing forex outside the banking system.
The small gap between official and black market rates is a sign that things may be improving, but many traders and importers say forex is still not easily available.
What This Means for Nigerians
- For Travellers & Online Payments: If you’re planning to travel or make online payments in dollars, expect to pay the higher black market rate unless you have access to CBN-approved forex sources.
- For Businesses: Importers and businesses that rely on foreign exchange may still struggle with limited access to forex at official rates. This could keep prices of imported goods high.
- For Everyday Nigerians: A stable Naira means prices of goods may not rise as fast as they did last year, but things are still expensive.
Looking Ahead
The Naira is holding steady for now, but things can change quickly. With global oil prices fluctuating and Nigeria still dependent on imports, forex supply remains uncertain. The CBN is trying to keep things under control, but for the average Nigerian, accessing forex at affordable rates is still a challenge.
If you’re looking to exchange money, always compare rates and ensure you’re dealing with reliable sources. Let’s hope for better days ahead.
