Naira Holds Steady at ₦1,356/$1 as Parallel Market Trades Around ₦1,430
The Naira traded steadily against the United States dollar on Friday, February 13, 2026, maintaining relative stability across both the official and parallel foreign exchange markets.
At the official window, the local currency exchanged at approximately ₦1,355 to ₦1,356 per dollar, reflecting minimal volatility compared to earlier sessions this week. Market data indicates that the currency has remained within the ₦1,350 band in recent days, suggesting improved liquidity and moderated demand pressures. In the parallel market, commonly referred to as the black market, the dollar was quoted between ₦1,425 and ₦1,440, with an average rate of about ₦1,430/$1 in major trading hubs such as Lagos and Abuja. The spread between the official and parallel markets remained relatively narrow compared to previous months, signaling gradual convergence. Analysts attribute the Naira’s stability to recent policy measures introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria aimed at boosting foreign exchange supply. The apex bank recently permitted licensed Bureau De Change operators to purchase foreign exchange directly from commercial banks within set limits, a move designed to ease retail demand pressure and enhance market transparency. Financial experts say the improved performance is also linked to better coordination within the official foreign exchange framework, which has helped balance supply and demand dynamics more effectively.
