Nigeria’s External Reserves Rise to $53.11bn, Close to 2009 Record

Nigeria’s External Reserves Rise to $53.11bn, Close to 2009 Record

Nigeria’s external reserves have climbed to $53.11bn, representing their highest level in more than 17 years and bringing the country close to the reserve peak recorded in 2009.

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) showed that reserves stood at $53.112bn as of 24 August, 2026. The figure is the highest since 12 January, 2009, when the reserves reached $53.25bn.

The latest position leaves Nigeria’s reserves just $142m short of the January 2009 level, indicating a significant recovery in the country’s external liquidity position.

The reserve buildup has accelerated since June. CBN data showed that reserves increased from $49.96bn on 3 June to $53.11bn on 24 August, representing a gain of about $3.15bn.

Reserves also rose from $51.53bn on 3 July to $53.11bn by 24 August. The position crossed the $52bn threshold on 27 July and subsequently increased to $52.86bn on 21 August.

The sustained accumulation has been supported partly by stronger oil earnings and increased dollar inflows into the economy.

Analysts say the stronger reserve position gives the country a larger cushion against external shocks and supports efforts to improve confidence in the foreign exchange market.

The buildup is occurring alongside the CBN’s tight monetary policy stance, which is aimed at containing inflation and supporting broader macroeconomic stability.

According to an Abuja-based economist, Chukwunmonso Iheoma, “The rise in reserves strengthens Nigeria’s capacity to manage external pressures and provides greater confidence in the foreign exchange market.”

He warned that the focus now should be on ensuring that the accumulation is supported by sustainable dollar inflows rather than temporary factors.

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