CBN releases another $500m tranche to clear backlog of FX owed airlines, others

In its determination to address the backlog of verified foreign exchange transactions, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Monday announced the release of $500 million to various sectors.

This tranche of payment is coming barely a week after the Bank paid approximately US $2.0 billion to settle outstanding commitments across manufacturing, aviation, and petroleum sectors.

The Acting Director of the Corporate Communications Department at the CBN, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, stated this in Abuja on Monday, January 29, 2024, noting that the Management of the CBN was committed to settling all legitimate foreign exchange backlogs within a short time frame.

Reiterating the assurances of the Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, Sidi Ali said the CBN had begun implementing a comprehensive strategy to improve liquidity in the Nigerian foreign exchange markets in the short, medium, and long term.

“As the Governor said, the CBN’s focus is on addressing fundamental issues that have hindered the effective operation of the Nigerian FX markets over the years,” she added.

While noting that the forex market reforms were designed to streamline and unify multiple exchange rates, foster transparency, and reduce arbitrage opportunities, Sidi Ali expressed confidence that a stable exchange rate would boost investor confidence and attract foreign investment.

She, therefore, urged all participants in the market to play by the rules, stressing that transparency in the market would enable the fair determination of exchange rates and, by extension, guarantee stability for businesses and individuals alike.