What Currency Does Nigeria Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 1,379 NGN
1 GBP ≈ 1,849 NGN
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Nigeria? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Nigerian naira spending.
What is money called in Nigeria?
Money in Nigeria is called the Nigerian naira — its ISO 4217 currency code is NGN, and its symbol is ₦. The Nigerian naira is the official legal tender in Nigeria and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Nigeria currency or simply money in Nigeria. The Nigerian naira is subdivided into 100 kobo, though small-denomination coins may not always be in everyday circulation.
Is the Nigerian naira used anywhere else?
No — Nigeria is the only country on this site using the Nigerian naira as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Nigeria
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Nigerian naira in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
Planning to visit Nigeria?
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Money essentials for Nigeria
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Nigeria currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Nigeria?
The currency of Nigeria is the Nigerian naira (currency code: NGN, symbol: ₦).
What is the currency code for Nigeria?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Nigerian naira is NGN.
What is the Nigerian naira symbol?
The symbol for the Nigerian naira is ₦. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Nigeria.
What currency is used in Nigeria?
The official currency used in Nigeria is the Nigerian naira (NGN).
Can I use US dollars in Nigeria?
The official currency of Nigeria is the Nigerian naira, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Nigerian naira and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Nigeria?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 1,379 NGN and 1 GBP = 1,849 NGN. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Nigeria?
Money in Nigeria is called the Nigerian naira (NGN).
Do other countries use the Nigerian naira?
No — Nigeria is the only country on this site using the Nigerian naira as its official currency.
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