The Central Bank of Nigeria has stated that the decline in the country’s inflation rate in July was a positive sign that its monetary measures are beginning to yield results.
The CBN highlighted this development as evidence of the effectiveness of its strategies aimed at stabilising the economy and controlling inflationary pressures.
The apex bank spokesperson, Sidi Hakama, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Recall that the National Bureau of Statistics’ latest inflation data released on Thursday showed that Nigeria’s inflation decreased to 33.40 per cent in July from 34.19 recorded in the previous Month.
Reacting to the report, CBN stressed that its interest rate tightening measure which stood at 26.75 per cent in July is tackling inflation.
“Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that Nigeria’s year-on-year headline inflation rate slowed in July 2024, for the first time in 19 months – a clear indication that the CBN’s monetary policy tightening measures are delivering results”.
The CBN added that its policies will contribute to achieving its broader objective of maintaining stability in the foreign exchange market.
The CBN has also reported a significant increase in remittance inflows, reaching $553m in July 2024, a 130 per cent increase from the corresponding period in 2023.
A statement by Hakama Sidi Ali on Tuesday, said the figure represented the highest monthly total inflows on record, and reflects ongoing efforts by the CBN to enhance liquidity in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market.
The substantial growth in remittance receipts was attributable to policy measures introduced by the CBN to enhance liquidity in Nigeria’s foreign exchange market.
These measures included granting licenses to new International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), implementing a willing buyer-willing seller model, and enabling timely access to naira liquidity for IMTOs.
Diaspora remittances are a crucial source of foreign exchange for Nigeria, supplementing both foreign direct investment and portfolio investments.
The CBN said its initiatives have supported continued growth in these inflows, aligning with the institution’s objective of doubling formal remittance receipts within a year.
The statement added, “The increase in remittances is a strong testament to the success of the CBN’s ongoing efforts to bolster public confidence in the foreign exchange market, strengthen a robust and inclusive banking system, and promote price stability, which is essential for sustained economic growth.”
Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that Nigeria’s year-on-year headline inflation rate slowed in July 2024, for the first time in 19 months.
CBN said the development is a clear indication that its monetary policy tightening measures are delivering results.
“The CBN anticipates that these measures will contribute to achieving its broader objective of maintaining stability in the foreign exchange market. The Bank will continue to monitor market conditions and adjust policies as necessary to enable greater remittance flows into Nigeria,” the statement added.
