Brand News Day Nigeria reports that the naira continued to face pressure against the United States dollar at the parallel market, as trading activities reflected elevated exchange rates on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
Market observations indicate that the dollar was sold on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at ₦1,480 and purchased at ₦ 1,450 by operators at the Lagos-based parallel market, commonly referred to as the black market.
Currency dealers, particularly Bureau De Change (BDCs) operators, confirmed that these rates represented the prevailing conditions at the close of trading, highlighting sustained demand for foreign exchange amid limited supply.
The figures suggest that individuals seeking to exchange dollars for naira at the informal market were required to transact within this range. However, rates may differ slightly depending on location and negotiation.
Meanwhile, data obtained by BrandNewsDay shows that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s official exchange window recorded lower rates for the same period. At the official market, the dollar exchanged between ₦1,430 and ₦1,455, reflecting a notable gap between the regulated and unregulated forex segments.
It is important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria does not recognise transactions conducted at the parallel market and has consistently advised individuals and businesses seeking foreign exchange to channel their demands through commercial banks and approved financial institutions.
According to Bureau De Change (BDC) sources in the Ogba and Ikeja axis of Lagos state, the exchange rate for a dollar to naira at the Parallel Market (Black Market) was N1,455 on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. The U.S. Dollar was bought at N1430-N1450 and sold for N1480.
Bureau De Change (BDC) sources in Gwarimpa and Gwagwalada in FCT buy a dollar for N1430 to N1455 and sell it between N1460 to N1480 on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
Market analysts caution that exchange rates may fluctuate, as forex prices are influenced by demand, supply, and regional market dynamics, meaning actual buying or selling rates may vary from those.
Stanbic IBTC - Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Oyo State embraced the opportunity…
Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking subsidiary of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc…
As a major sponsor of Lagos Polo Club over the years, Stanbic IBTC was proud…
Kenya has introduced new legal powers allowing its central bank to provide emergency financial support…
Stanbic IBTC Capital, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, has been named the Best Investment…
By Olajumoke Bello, Head Enterprise Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank Across Nigeria, small and medium enterprises…
This website uses cookies.