…dollar trades at an average of ₦1,441.85 against the Naira.
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | The Nigerian Naira began the first full week of 2026 with continued fluctuations across market segments. As of the morning of January 5, the currency showed a modest recovery compared to its closing levels at the end of last year, but it remains under pressure amid sustained demand for the US Dollar.
At the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), the official window monitored by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), dollar trades at an average of ₦1,441.85 against the Naira. Early morning trading saw some volatility, with the rate dipping to a low of ₦1,437.10 before stabilizing near the current level. Analysts note that liquidity in the official market continues to play a crucial role in price determination, especially as authorities work toward unifying exchange rates.
In the parallel, or “black” market, the Dollar is trading at a premium to the official rate. Bureau De Change operators and street traders in major cities such as Lagos, Abuja, and Kano are quoting the Dollar between ₦1,455 and ₦1,465, depending on transaction size and location.
The gap between official and parallel market rates has narrowed slightly in recent weeks, reflecting a gradual convergence supported by tighter monetary policy measures.
Current exchange rate trends are largely driven by the resumption of full business activity following the festive period. Strong demand from manufacturers and importers restocking inventories for the first quarter of 2026 continues to support the Dollar. Meanwhile, investors remain attentive to the CBN’s foreign reserve levels and potential interventions to inject liquidity into the market.
