Naira falls despite external reserves hitting highest level since 2009
By Aboki Forex —
Nigeria’s external reserves rose to $50.96 billion as of June 17, 2026. That is the highest level since 2009. The figure represents an increase of $13.22 billion from $37.74 billion recorded in the same period last year.
Despite this boost, the naira weakened across foreign exchange markets. It closed at N1,363.30 per dollar at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) and N1,403 per dollar at the parallel market. On Friday, June 19, the naira depreciated further by N7.16 to N1,370.46 per dollar at the official window.
The Central Bank of Nigeria data shows the reserves growth strengthens the CBN’s ability to meet international payment obligations and support the local currency. Total turnover at the NFEM window rose by 29.25% to $378.34 million on June 18. Weekly turnover at the official market hit $2.56 billion.
The International Monetary Fund has backed Nigeria’s flexible exchange rate system. It is urging more transparency in the FX market and reduced reliance on central bank interventions.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, said on X that the reserves rose to $51.04 billion on June 18, the highest in 17 years. He said the achievement shows the administration’s progress despite criticism from opposition figures.
The naira also lost ground against the pound sterling, closing at N1,814.76 per pound. It fell against the euro to N1,571.50 per euro.