We maintained a current account surplus and saw remarkable improvements in our trade balance.”
By Ife Osemedua
365Daily – The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has assured Nigerians that the $42.01billion external reserves of the country can finance importation of goods and services for more than nine months .
This was disclosed by the Governor of CBN, Olayemi Cardoso, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, during a performance index report presentation to the Senate Committee on Banking , Insurance and other Financial Institutions at the National Assembly.
He expressed optimism that assured Nigerians will experience better economic fortunes in 2025 .
According to the CBN governor, ” External Reserves rose from $38.35bilion it was on September 30, 2024 , to $42.01billion as of December 12, 2024 .
The increase in external reserves within the stated period, he explained, was driven largely by receipts from crude oil related taxes and third party receipts in Q3 2024.
“We maintained a current account surplus and saw remarkable improvements in our trade balance.
“Our external reserves level can finance over 9.09months of import of goods and services or 13.91 months only , higher than the international benchmark of 3.0 months and a robust buffer against shocks “, he said .
On cash shortage, the CBN boss, reiterated application of new policy of N150million fine against any branch of Banks caught indulging in illegal distribution of new Naira notes to currency hawkers and unscrupulous elements .
He added that the Nigeria economy will take a better shape in 2025 fiscal year , through policies and measures that had been put on ground .
“Disntinguished Senators , as I conclude this briefing , I want to highlight that despite the challenges facing our economy, there are clear reasons for optimism .
“The gradual stabilisation of the forex market , ongoing banking sector recapitalization , positive growth trends in key sectors , especially the services sector , indicate a path toward recovery and stability “, he said .
Responding to his presentation, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, assured him of the support of the National Assembly to continue working in the best interest of Nigerians.