Aboki Naira to Dollar Black Market Exchange Rate Today, 18th January 2026

The Nigerian Naira maintained relative stability in the parallel market (commonly known as the black market or Aboki rate) on Sunday, January 18, 2026, amid ongoing forex supply dynamics and early-year economic activities.

According to aggregated updates from Bureau de Change (BDC) operators, informal dealers, and popular trackers like Nairatoday and other Aboki sources across major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano, the US Dollar (USD) to Nigerian Naira (NGN) black market exchange rate today stands at approximately ₦1,494 per dollar for selling.

• Selling rate: ₦1,494 per $1 (the rate at which Aboki/BDC operators sell dollars to buyers).
• Buying rate: Typically lower, around ₦1,480–₦1,485 per $1, depending on location, transaction volume, and dealer negotiations (spreads can vary intraday).

This rate reflects a continuation of the steady levels observed in recent days, with minimal fluctuations reported over the weekend. Traders attribute the stability to improved foreign-exchange inflows, sustained oil revenues, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) ‘s efforts to manage liquidity in the formal market.

For comparison, the official exchange rate in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM), as managed by the CBN, has been hovering around ₦1,420–₦1,480 per dollar in recent sessions (based on volume-weighted averages and reports from mid-January 2026).

This leaves a narrower arbitrage gap of about 3–5% between official and parallel markets—significantly reduced from wider disparities in previous years—thanks to policy interventions aimed at greater unification and transparency.

Market observers note that while the Naira has shown resilience entering 2026, the parallel market remains sensitive to factors such as seasonal demand spikes (e.g., for travel, education abroad, or imports), global oil price movements, and remittance flows. Nigerians are advised to consult reputable BDC operators directly for the most accurate real-time quotes, as rates can shift quickly based on local supply and demand.

Stay informed by checking trusted platforms like Aboki Forex trackers, TheCityCeleb, or official CBN updates for the latest developments in Nigeria’s forex landscape. Rates are indicative and subject to change without prior notice.