The Nigerian Naira has taken a significant hit against major foreign currencies, with exchange rates soaring to new highs in the black market across Lagos, Abuja, and Kano.
According to the latest updates on Sunday, July 7, the Naira weakened further against the United States Dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), and British Pound (GBP), deepening concerns over Nigeria’s foreign exchange market stability.
Latest Black Market Exchange Rates:
Dollar to Naira (USD/NGN)
Buying Rate: ₦1,555
Selling Rate: ₦1,565
Euro to Naira (EUR/NGN)
Buying Rate: ₦1,760
Selling Rate: ₦1,790
Pound to Naira (GBP/NGN)
Buying Rate: ₦2,135
Selling Rate: ₦2,170
These rates reflect transactions in the parallel market, also known as the Aboki FX or Bureau De Change (BDC) segment, where demand for foreign currencies remains high amid supply shortages.
Why Is the Naira Falling?
The continuous depreciation of the Naira isn’t happening in isolation. Several key factors influence exchange rate movements:
Interest Rates:
Higher interest rates typically attract foreign investors looking for better returns, boosting demand for the local currency. However, lower rates may discourage investments, causing the currency to weaken.
Trade Balance:
Countries with trade surpluses — where exports exceed imports — tend to have stronger currencies. Nigeria’s reliance on imports and low export volumes continue to pressure the Naira.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):
Foreign investors usually flock to stable economies. When FDI rises, it increases demand for the local currency, strengthening it. However, Nigeria has witnessed declining FDI inflows due to economic instability and security concerns.
Government Policies:
Monetary policies, foreign exchange controls, and interventions by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directly impact the exchange rate. Policies such as import restrictions or forex rationing often affect the value of the Naira.
Global Economic Conditions:
International market trends, oil prices, inflation, geopolitical tensions, and other global events also play a role. When foreign investors pull out funds or avoid certain markets, local currencies — including the Naira — suffer.
A Fragile Outlook
These factors don’t operate in isolation. The foreign exchange market is complex, with changes in one area often triggering ripple effects across others. This makes currency valuation a highly volatile and unpredictable space.
For now, Nigerians continue to face the harsh realities of a weakened Naira, with import costs rising and inflationary pressures mounting across various sectors.
