Money
Currency
Naira (N) = 100 kobo. Notes are in denominations of N500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of N1 kobo 50, 25, 10 and 1.
Currency exchange
The government of Nigeria has fixed an artificially high rate for local currency (the Naira) in terms of its value in exchange for foreign currencies. However, trading on the black market is extremely dangerous and could lead to arrest. Therefore, visitors are advised to exchange currency at the official rate and at approved exchange facilities, which often include major hotels. Inter-bank transfers are frequently difficult, if not impossible, to accomplish.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are rarely accepted in Nigeria and, because of the prevalence of credit card fraud, their use is ill-advised.
Travellers cheques
Travellers cheques are generally not recommended.
Currency restrictions
Import of local currency is limited to N20 in notes and must be declared on arrival. Export of local currency is restricted to N20 in notes. Import of foreign currency is unlimited, but it must be declared on arrival; export is limited to the amount declared. Penalties for black market transactions are severe.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Naira against Sterling and the US Dollar:
| Date | Feb '04 | May '04 | Aug '04 | Feb '05 | | 1.00= | 249.10 | 243.18 | 245.68 | 244.58 | | $1.00= | 136.85 | 136.15 | 133.35 | 129.51 |
Banking hours
Mon 0800-1500, Tue-Fri 0800-1330. There are over 80 commercial banks. The Government owns 60 per cent of all foreign banks.
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