By Tochukwu Bliss, Abuja
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in collaboration with the Financial Markets Dealers Association (FMDA), has announced the introduction of the Nigerian Overnight Financing Rate (NOFR).
This, the parties said, is a standardized benchmark aimed at enhancing transparency,
strengthening monetary policy transmission, and deepening Nigeria’s money market.
A statement by the Ag. Director, Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, informed that NOFR was developed to align Nigeria with global best practices in short-term interest rate benchmarks.
She said: “It is expected to improve price discovery and transparency while promoting consistent pricing of money market instruments.
“It will enhance the effectiveness of monetary policy, support financial innovation, boost investor confidence, and strengthen risk management across the financial system.
“The introduction of NOFR positions Nigeria alongside leading global benchmarks such as SOFR (United States), SONIA (United Kingdom), €STR (Eurozone), and TONA
(Japan). It also complements African benchmarks such as JIBAR (South Africa).”
According to her, the adoption of the benchmark followed a stakeholder engagement session held on February 27, where market participants formally adopted it, and subsequent regulatory approval.
NOFR is now in use, with the CBN serving as the benchmark administrator, the statement added.
The apex bank also promised to ensure governance, transparency, and regular publication of the rate.
It will enhance the effectiveness of monetary policy, support financial innovation, boost investor confidence, and strengthen risk management across the financial system.
