Currency strengthens at both official and parallel markets after days of losses
Nigeria’s naira saw a modest rebound on Thursday, marking its first appreciation against the U.S. dollar this week across both the official and parallel (black) foreign exchange markets.
According to data published by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the naira traded at ₦1,534.79/$1 on Thursday, strengthening slightly from ₦1,535.62/$1 recorded the previous day — a marginal gain of ₦0.83.
The parallel market also witnessed a similar uptick, with the naira appreciating by ₦5, trading at ₦1,535/$1, compared to the ₦1,540/$1 rate maintained since the start of the week.
These gains represent the first recorded appreciation in both markets since Friday, July 18, 2025. In the days that followed — Monday through Wednesday — the naira had consistently depreciated in the official market and remained flat in the black market.
The modest rebound in the naira’s value could be attributed to improved liquidity, interventions by the CBN, or a temporary easing of dollar demand pressures. However, analysts suggest that sustained gains will depend on broader macroeconomic stability, increased forex inflows, and continued reform efforts by monetary authorities.
The naira has experienced considerable volatility throughout 2025 as Nigeria continues its battle to stabilize foreign exchange markets amid external pressures and internal economic adjustments.
