Naira gains N7.27 against US dollar in official FX market, closes at N1,372.41
By Aboki Forex —
The Nigerian naira appreciated by N7.27 against the US dollar in the official foreign exchange market on Wednesday, July 1, closing at N1,372.41/$1, according to data from the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM). The gain, representing a 0.39% increase from the previous day's close of N1,379.68/$1, was driven by increased dollar inflows and reduced demand for the greenback.
Naira strengthens against other major currencies
In addition to its gain against the US dollar, the naira also strengthened against other major international currencies in the official market. The local currency appreciated by N3.32 against the British pound sterling to close at N1,821.73/£1, up from N1,825.05/£1 recorded a day earlier. Similarly, the naira gained N7.61 against the euro to settle at N1,565.37/€1, compared with the previous exchange rate of N1,572.98/€1.
Parallel market flat as interbank demand falls
While the official market recorded gains, the naira traded flat in the parallel market, where the US dollar exchanged at N1,395/$1. The exchange rate at GTBank's FX desk also remained unchanged at N1,389/$1. Market data showed that the number of interbank foreign exchange deals fell sharply to 91 from 166 in the previous session, indicating weaker demand for US dollars by customers. This decline in FX transactions reduced pressure on the official market and helped support the naira's appreciation.
External reserves rise to $51.46 billion
Nigeria received additional foreign exchange inflows during the first half of 2026, boosting the country's gross external reserves to $51.46 billion by the end of June. The stronger reserve position is expected to enhance the Central Bank of Nigeria's (CBN) ability to support liquidity in the foreign exchange market.
What this means for the naira and Nigerian businesses: The combination of lower FX demand and rising external reserves could help sustain the naira's recent gains in the official market. For businesses that rely on the official window, the stronger naira reduces import costs and may ease pricing pressures. However, the wide gap between the official rate of N1,372.41/$1 and the parallel market rate of N1,395/$1 remains a concern, as it could encourage speculative activity and arbitrage.