ON
← Back to feed
Nigeria records $947m remittances in July, nears $1bn monthly target
NG📈 EconomyCenter8/31/2026

Nigeria records $947m remittances in July, nears $1bn monthly target

In July 2026, Nigeria received $947 million in remittance inflows through formal channels, marking the highest monthly amount recorded via International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), according to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This figure brings Nigeria closer to its goal of achieving $1 billion in monthly remittances. The CBN reported that total remittances through IMTOs in the first seven months of 2026 amounted to $3.8 billion, reflecting a 50.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The rise follows reforms by the CBN aimed at making formal remittance channels more competitive, transparent, and accessible, including changes to exchange rates, regulatory frameworks, and new verification systems like the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN). Governor Olayemi Cardoso noted that the progress demonstrates the viability of the $1 billion target, which was initially seen as ambitious. The CBN emphasized that while monthly figures may vary, the focus remains on maintaining the upward trend and increasing the share of remittances flowing through formal channels.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) announced that the country received $947 million in remittance inflows through International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) in July 2026, marking the highest monthly inflow ever recorded through formal channels. This figure brings Nigeria closer to its goal of achieving $1 billion in monthly remittance inflows through formal means. The announcement came via a statement issued by the CBN’s Corporate Communications Department in Abuja, attributed to Governor Olayemi Cardoso. The July remittance total surpassed previous records and reflects a consistent upward trend in formal remittance flows. According to the CBN, the cumulative inflows through IMTOs reached $3.8 billion in the first seven months of 2026, a 50.2 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025. This growth underscores the effectiveness of recent reforms aimed at enhancing the competitiveness, transparency, and accessibility of formal remittance channels. These reforms included transitioning to a more market-determined exchange rate, revising the regulatory framework for IMTOs, and introducing the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN). Governor Cardoso highlighted that the CBN has been actively engaging with IMTOs, banks, and Nigerian diaspora communities to improve the efficiency and reliability of remittance services. He emphasized that the bank has also implemented stricter requirements for remittance transactions to be processed through designated settlement accounts held with authorized dealer banks. This measure aims to enhance transparency and ensure compliance with financial regulations. In his remarks, Cardoso noted that while individual monthly figures might fluctuate, the overall trajectory of remittance inflows shows a positive direction. He stated that the current level of $947 million in July demonstrates the progress made toward the $1 billion monthly target, which was set nearly two years ago. Initially, many questioned whether such a target was achievable, but the data suggests that the CBN's strategies are yielding tangible results. The CBN explained that the rise in remittance inflows carries significant implications for Nigeria’s economic stability. Increased formal remittances contribute to foreign exchange liquidity, bolster household incomes, and support investment activities. They also help strengthen the nation’s external financing capacity, providing a more stable foundation for economic planning and development. To further drive this momentum, the CBN plans to deepen its collaboration with Nigerian diaspora communities and financial sector partners across key remittance corridors. The bank intends to leverage its presence in major global financial centers to engage these groups and promote the use of formal remittance channels. By reducing transaction costs and improving access, the CBN hopes to encourage more individuals to channel their funds through regulated platforms. Cardoso reiterated that the July figure should be viewed within the context of a long-term strategy rather than as a standalone achievement. He expressed confidence that Nigeria is on track to achieve and maintain monthly remittance inflows exceeding $1 billion. The CBN continues to monitor developments closely and remains committed to fostering sustainable growth in formal remittance channels.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 2 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

4 reports

The Punch logoThe PunchIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 858/31/2026
FX utilisation jumps 74% to $16.2bn in Q1

Nigeria's foreign exchange (FX) utilization surged by 74% to $16.2 billion in Q1 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, driven primarily by invisible transactions that more than doubled to $11.4 billion. Invisible transactions made up 70% of total FX usage, with the financial services sector accounting for 79% of this, utilizing $9 billion. Business services saw significant growth, while merchandise imports remained stable at $4.9 billion. Industrial companies experienced a 20% decline in FX use, though manufactured goods and transport products showed increases due to higher import costs and global supply chain issues. Improved liquidity and naira stability contributed to the trend, according to analysts.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual economic data without overt ideological slant. It reports on FX utilization trends, citing central bank data and expert analysis without favoring specific political agendas. While it mentions potential implications for economic policy, it does not take a clear partisan立场

Why factuality (90): The article references the CBN’s Quarterly Statistical Bulletin as the primary source for FX utilization figures and presents detailed breakdowns of different transaction categories. It accurately reports the percentage increases and categorizes the data without apparent distortion.

Why objectivity (85): The reporting is neutral, presenting facts without evident bias. The structure clearly separates different sectors and their performance, maintaining an objective tone throughout.

Vanguard Nigeria logoVanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 858/30/2026
Nigeria records $947m remittances in July, nears $1bn monthly target

In July 2026, Nigeria received $947 million in remittance inflows through formal channels, marking the highest monthly amount recorded via International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), according to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This figure brings Nigeria closer to its goal of achieving $1 billion in monthly remittances. The CBN reported that total remittances through IMTOs in the first seven months of 2026 amounted to $3.8 billion, reflecting a 50.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The rise follows reforms by the CBN aimed at making formal remittance channels more competitive, transparent, and accessible, including changes to exchange rates, regulatory frameworks, and new verification systems like the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN). Governor Olayemi Cardoso noted that the progress demonstrates the viability of the $1 billion target, which was initially seen as ambitious. The CBN emphasized that while monthly figures may vary, the focus remains on maintaining the upward trend and increasing the share of remittances flowing through formal channels.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data and policy developments related to Nigeria's remittance inflows without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on economic indicators, central bank policies, and expert commentary without introducing ideological slant or partisan framing. The tone is ap

Why factuality (88): This article corroborates the CBN's report of $947m in July remittances, providing additional details such as the year-to-date total ($3.8bn) and percentage increase (50.2%) compared to 2025. It accurately summarizes the reforms and their impact, matching the content from the first article and align

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the CBN's statements and data without apparent bias. The only slightly subjective remark is the quote where the governor mentions public skepticism, but this is framed as a direct quote rather than an opinionated commentary.

Vanguard Nigeria logoVanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 808/31/2026
Nigeria hits record $947m monthly remittances, nears $1bn target – CBN

In July 2026, Nigeria received $947 million in remittance inflows through formal channels, marking a new record and bringing it close to its $1 billion monthly target set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This represents a 50.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025, driven by reforms such as market-determined exchange rates, improved regulation of International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs), and the introduction of the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN). The CBN has emphasized the importance of formal remittance channels for boosting foreign-exchange liquidity, supporting households, and enhancing Nigeria's external financing position. Governor Olayemi Cardo By Babajide Komolafe noted that while the $947 million figure is impressive, the focus remains on sustaining growth and achieving consistent monthly inflows above $1 billion.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data and official statements regarding Nigeria's remittance inflows and the CBN's efforts to improve formal remittance channels. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on specific political agendas. The tone is objective, focusing on economic outcomes and theC

Why factuality (85): The article cites the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as the source for the $947 million remittance figure and mentions specific reforms implemented by the CBN. It provides context about the trend over time and the implications of the data. However, the text is cut off before providing full details, l

Why objectivity (80): The tone remains professional and informative, focusing on the economic impact and policy context. There is no overt bias or emotional language, though the quote from the governor carries a slightly promotional tone.

The Punch logoThe PunchIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 808/30/2026
$947m July remittances highest monthly inflow — CBN

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reported that remittance inflows through formal channels reached $947 million in July 2026, marking the highest monthly amount ever recorded. This figure approaches the CBN's goal of achieving $1 billion in monthly remittances. Governor Olayemi Cardoso attributed the growth to reforms such as market-determined exchange rates, improved regulation for international money transfer operators (IMTOs), and the introduction of the Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN). He emphasized that these measures have enhanced transparency, accessibility, and competitiveness of formal remittance channels, contributing to increased foreign exchange liquidity and supporting household income and investment. While the CBN acknowledges natural fluctuations in monthly figures, it focuses on long-term trends and continued efforts to channel more remittances through formal systems.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information based on official statements from the CBN governor and does not take a partisan stance. It reports on economic data and policy outcomes without overtly favoring any political ideology. The framing remains neutral, focusing on factual updates and policy impacts rather

Why factuality (85): The article cites the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as the primary source, reporting $947m in July remittances as the highest monthly inflow. It accurately reflects the CBN governor's statements about the increase compared to previous periods and the reforms implemented. While the full text is cut o

Why objectivity (80): The article presents the facts neutrally, quoting the CBN governor directly and explaining the context of the remittance increases and reforms. However, there is a slight editorial tone when the governor comments on public perception ('some people thought we were dreaming'), which introduces a subje

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories