Nigeria Interest Rate — 2026 Central Bank Data & Outlook
Nigeria's central bank interest rate was 18.45% in December 2025, up from 16.29% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 16.29%.
Nigeria's central bank interest rate stands at 18.45% as of December 2025. Over the latest readings, the central bank interest rate has moved within a band of 6.00% to 31.65%. The most recent figure of 18.45% is up from 16.29% a year earlier, and is 2.16% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 168 economies tracked on this platform, Nigeria ranks #21 on central bank interest rate by latest value. It rose from 16.29% in the previous year, and compares with a year-earlier 16.29%.
What's driving it
The policy rate is set to balance inflation against growth and employment; it rises to restrain demand and falls to support it.
Recent readings
| Period | Central bank interest rate |
|---|---|
| Dec 2025 | 18.45% |
| Dec 2024 | 16.29% |
| Dec 2023 | 14.01% |
| Dec 2022 | 12.33% |
| Dec 2021 | 11.48% |
| Dec 2020 | 13.64% |
| Dec 2019 | 15.38% |
| Dec 2018 | 16.90% |
Data: The World Bank — World Development Indicators (CC BY 4.0) Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Central Bank Interest Rate in Nigeria (2026)?
Nigeria's central bank interest rate was 18.45% in December 2025, up from 16.29% the previous year. A year earlier it stood at 16.29%.
Is the central bank interest rate rising or falling in Nigeria?
It rose in the latest reading — 18.45% in December 2025 versus 16.29% a year earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is central bank interest rate?
It measures the benchmark policy rate set by the central bank, which steers borrowing costs across the economy.