Nigeria's External Reserves Surge by $9.66 Billion in 2026

Nigeria's gross external reserves rose by $9.66 billion from $45.57 billion at the beginning of January to $55.22 billion as of October 30, 2026, marking a 21.19 percent growth. This increase occurred despite fluctuations during the year.

In comparison, the reserves grew by only $2.31 billion during the same period in 2025, from $40.88 billion to $43.20 billion, which was a 5.66 percent growth. The 2026 increase was $7.34 billion higher than the previous year, indicating more than a fourfold rise in the amount added to the reserves.

Year on year, the reserves increased by $12.02 billion, a 27.84 percent rise from $43.20 billion at the end of October 2025. As of October 30, 2026, liquid external reserves stood at $54.71 billion, while blocked reserves accounted for approximately $509.25 million, or 0.92 percent of the total.

The growth in reserves strengthens Nigeria's foreign exchange buffer, essential for meeting external obligations and supporting international trade.