Naira Strengthens by N137 Against Dollar: Experts Call for Sustained Growth

The Nigerian naira recently experienced a remarkable appreciation of N137.69 against the US dollar, a significant milestone driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) introduction of a new foreign exchange (FX) platform. This development has sparked optimism among stakeholders, who emphasize the need to sustain the momentum to enhance Nigeria’s economic prospects.

Naira’s Rise: A Week of Steady Gains

Data from the CBN reveals that the naira strengthened by 8.24%, closing the week at N1,535 per dollar on Friday, December 6, 2024. This is a substantial improvement from N1,672.69 per dollar recorded on November 29, 2024. The operationalization of the Bloomberg BMatch FX platform was instrumental in this progress, ensuring transparency and stability in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market.

Throughout the week, the naira recorded steady improvements:

• Monday, December 2: Exchange rate rose to N1,660/$, with rates fluctuating between N1,650 and N1,678.
• Tuesday, December 3: Naira appreciated further to N1,625/$, marking a 2.11% gain.
• Wednesday, December 4: Rate strengthened to N1,608/$, recording its third consecutive day of gains.
• Thursday, December 5: Exchange rate climbed to N1,567/$, supported by stable trading.
• Friday, December 6: The week ended with the naira closing at N1,535/$, cementing its best performance in months.

CBN’s Strategy: A Game-Changer for FX Market

The CBN mandated the adoption of the Bloomberg BMatch system for interbank FX trading, effective December 2, 2024. This platform introduces automated trade matching, fostering transparency, operational efficiency, and better price discovery. According to Omolara Duke, Director of the CBN’s Financial Markets Department, this innovation represents a significant leap in ensuring seamless operations among FX market participants.

Additionally, the CBN issued detailed guidelines for the system, setting a minimum tradable amount of $100,000 with incremental clip sizes of $50,000. These measures are designed to improve efficiency and transparency while stabilizing the naira.

Eurobond Boost and Market Confidence

Nigeria’s return to the international bond market further bolstered investor confidence. The Federal Government raised $2.02 billion through Eurobonds, oversubscribed by $9.01 billion. The funds, secured in two tranches, will enhance dollar liquidity and complement the CBN’s FX reforms.

Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, noted that the naira’s appreciation is a relief for businesses and individuals alike. He attributed the improvement to stronger reserves, the Eurobond inflow, and reforms in the FX market, all of which have elevated foreign investor confidence.

Private Sector Urges Sustained Efforts

Leaders in the Organised Private Sector (OPS) have lauded the naira’s appreciation but stressed the importance of sustaining these gains. Dr. Yusuf emphasized the need for fiscal discipline to complement monetary reforms. He urged the government to moderate debt levels, manage fiscal deficits, and prioritize spending to avoid liquidity challenges that could pressure the naira.

Adeyemi Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, echoed these sentiments. He called for measures to strengthen crude oil exports, promote non-oil exports, and encourage local refining of crude oil to reduce dependency on imported refined fuels.

Conclusion: A Promising Outlook

The naira’s recent performance reflects the positive impact of the CBN’s reforms and strategic interventions. However, sustaining these gains requires a coordinated approach that combines fiscal prudence, enhanced foreign exchange management, and policies to boost economic productivity.

With continued efforts to stabilize the FX market and improve investor confidence, Nigeria stands a chance to build on this momentum, ensuring long-term benefits for its economy and citizens.

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