Naira Records Strongest Gain Against US Dollar in Nearly Two Months
The Nigerian naira has made a significant comeback, appreciating by 4.8% against the US dollar in nearly two months, following the country’s debut domestic dollar-bond sale. This marks the biggest jump since July 22, with the currency closing at 1,558 naira per dollar on Wednesday, its strongest level against the greenback since August 21, according to Bloomberg reports.
The appreciation in the naira came after Nigeria’s first-ever foreign-currency domestic bond secured $900m in subscriptions. PUNCH Online reports that Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, stated that the $500m domestic FGN US Dollar Bond, which has a five-year maturity and a 9.75% coupon, is the first tranche of a $2bn bond programme registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The bond’s structure allows the government to absorb oversubscriptions up to the full $2bn programme limit. Edun further explained that proceeds from the bond will be directed towards critical sectors of the economy, as approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The debut bond issuance attracted a broad spectrum of investors, including both local and diaspora Nigerians, as well as institutional investors. The minister described the bond’s success as a key milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to promote financial inclusion and deepen economic growth. Bloomberg noted that the bond sale played a significant role in boosting investor sentiment, contributing to the naira’s recent strength against the dollar.
This development is seen as a positive step forward for Nigeria’s economy, as it demonstrates the country’s ability to attract foreign investment and stabilize its currency. The successful bond issuance also underscores the government’s commitment to promoting financial inclusion and deepening economic growth.
In conclusion, the recent strength of the naira against the US dollar is a welcome development for Nigeria’s economy, and its continued stability will be crucial for the country’s growth and development.
