Central Bank of Nigeria building. Photo: CBN
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 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.
