Daniel Adaji
Nigeria’s gross foreign reserves climbed by 6.14 per cent within 30 days, rising to $48.77 billion as of February 19, 2026, from $45.95 billion recorded on January 19, 2026.
Latest data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) show the reserves increased by $2.82 billion over the period, reflecting a steady build-up in the country’s external buffers.
Data indicate that reserves stood at $45.95 billion on January 19. The balance rose gradually through the final weeks of January, crossing $46 billion by January 20 and maintaining a consistent upward trajectory into February. By February 10, the reserves had reached $47.53 billion before climbing further to $48.77 billion nine days later.
A breakdown of the February 19 position shows that liquid reserves accounted for $48.13 billion, while $635.26 million remained blocked, representing 1.30 per cent of the total gross reserves.
The steady increase suggests improved inflows into the external reserve position over the one-month period. Analysts say movements in foreign reserves are closely watched as a measure of a country’s ability to meet external obligations, defend its currency, and cushion economic shocks.
The latest rise pushes Nigeria’s reserves closer to the $49 billion mark, strengthening the country’s external position compared to levels seen in mid-January.
The upward movement marks one of the strongest monthly increases so far this year, adding fresh momentum to the country’s reserve profile as February draws to a close.
