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CBN Intoduces Naira Payout For Diaspora Remittances | Watch Video

In a significant move aimed at boosting the Nigerian economy and facilitating seamless remittance transactions, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced a new policy allowing diaspora remittances to be paid out in naira.

The policy, which was announced recently, seeks to enhance the flexibility and convenience of remittance inflows while aligning with the CBN's commitment to maintaining stability in the foreign exchange market. Additionally, the CBN has emphasized that the remittances will be paid out at the Investors and Exporters (I&E) window rate, highlighting its commitment to ensuring an efficient and transparent exchange rate mechanism.

The Naira Payout Option

Under the new policy, Nigerians living abroad will have the choice to receive their remittances in naira, the country's local currency, instead of the previously limited options of receiving funds in foreign currency or through designated dollar accounts. This move is expected to streamline remittance processes and eliminate the need for beneficiaries to seek foreign exchange conversion services.

By introducing the naira payout option, the CBN aims to encourage the inflow of diaspora remittances into the Nigerian economy, which plays a crucial role in sustaining the country's foreign exchange reserves and providing essential support to families and businesses. Remittances from Nigerians abroad are a significant source of income for many households and have contributed substantially to the country's GDP.

Alignment with I&E Window Rate

One crucial aspect of the new policy is the insistence on the payment of diaspora remittances at the prevailing I&E window rate. The I&E window is a special foreign exchange market segment introduced by the CBN to enhance transparency and efficiency in the allocation of foreign exchange. It operates as an over-the-counter (OTC) market where investors, exporters, and other stakeholders can buy and sell foreign currencies at market-determined rates.

By pegging the remittance payout rate to the I&E window rate, the CBN aims to ensure fairness, stability, and transparency in the foreign exchange market.

This measure will prevent any potential distortions that could arise if remittances were paid out at a different rate. It also demonstrates the CBN's commitment to discouraging arbitrage opportunities and creating a level playing field for all market participants.

Benefits and Implications

The introduction of the naira payout option for diaspora remittances has several benefits and implications for various stakeholders:

1. Convenience for Beneficiaries: Nigerians living abroad can now receive their remittances directly in naira, eliminating the need for additional foreign exchange conversion services and associated costs.

2. Strengthening the Naira: The policy is expected to boost the country's foreign exchange reserves and stabilize the naira by attracting more diaspora remittances into the formal financial system.

3. Increased Economic Activity: The inflow of remittances stimulates economic activity by providing households with additional disposable income, supporting consumption, and acting as a catalyst for small business development and investment.

4. Transparent Exchange Rate Mechanism: Pegging the remittance payout rate to the I&E window rate enhances transparency in the foreign exchange market and reduces potential distortions or market manipulation.

The CBN's introduction of the naira payout option for diaspora remittances is a positive development that aims to bolster Nigeria's economy while providing greater convenience and flexibility for beneficiaries.

By insisting on payment at the I&E window rate, the CBN demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a transparent and efficient foreign exchange market. This move is expected to attract more remittances, strengthen the naira, and contribute to overall economic growth and stability in Nigeria.