The naira started the week on a calm note. No major jump. No sudden crash. Just steady movement.
On Monday, May 18, 2026, the official market traded at about ₦1,371 per dollar. The black market? Between ₦1,395 and ₦1,405. Same range as last week. Same pressure.
In Lagos and Abuja, BDC operators bought dollars around ₦1,395 and sold close to ₦1,405. The gap between official and parallel market remains narrow — about ₦24 to ₦34. That is good news. It means the Central Bank’s efforts are still holding.
Trading at the official window was calm, with the naira moving between ₦1,369 and ₦1,374. No sharp swings. Just small adjustments.
Analysts say improved dollar allocation to authorized dealers has helped reduce panic demand. But the pressure is still there. Importers need dollars. Travelers need dollars. Businesses need dollars. The black market remains active because not everyone can access the official window.
So what is the takeaway? The naira is not crashing. It is not flying either. Just holding steady. Watching. Waiting.
Will the naira strengthen this week or drop further? Drop your predictions below. 👇
