Agency Report

The Central Bank of Nigeria says it has successfully concluded the sale of government securities after issuing N1.053 trillion ($680 million) in short-term instruments.

Ms Sidi said the apex bank’s N500 billion offer at the open market operations (OMO) auction was oversubscribed after selling N1.053 trillion, with 79 per cent of the total bids, or the equivalent of $530 million, coming from foreign investors.

The auction was the first since last week’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, followed by a virtual meeting with foreign portfolio investors.

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According to the statement, CBN governor Olayemi Cardoso used both meetings to set a detailed strategy to curb inflation, stabilise the exchange rate and spur confidence in the banking system and the economy.

The statement said the development underscored the level of confidence the apex bank now enjoyed from investors, adding that the management of CBN was optimistic that its monetary policy measures were beginning to yield positive results.

Meanwhile, Mr Cardoso highlighted an outlook for a sustained increase in the CBN’s foreign currency reserves in the meeting with investors.

He assured them of improved liquidity in the foreign exchange market and imminent settlement of the remaining backlog of genuine foreign exchange transactions.

“The CBN is committed to supporting price stability by taking the necessary measures to increase liquidity in the foreign exchange markets sustainably.

“Our focus is on building a fully functioning market that allows smooth entry and exit for investors,” he said.

(NAN)