EXCHANGE RATE FLUCTUATION AND EXPORT PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA

This study examined the relationship between exchange rate fluctuation and export performance in Nigeria using data from 1980 to 2024which was estimated with the Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model and error correction framework. The findings showed that in the long-run exchange rate has a positive and statistically significant effect on export performance, interest rate has a negative but statistically insignificant effect on export performance, foreign direct investment shows a positive and statistically significant relationship with export performance, gross domestic product has a positive but statistically insignificant effect on exports. In the short-run exchange rate have a positive but statistically insignificant effect on exports, interest rate has a positive and statistically insignificant impact on export performance, foreign direct investment remains positive and statistically significant, GDP have a positive and statistically significant effect on exports. Based on the findings, the study recommended that the Central Bank of Nigeria should continue to promote a competitive exchange rate regime that supports export competitiveness while limiting excessive volatility. Government agencies should prioritize investment incentives in sectors with high export potential, such as agro-processing, light manufacturing, and solid minerals. The Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) should expand access to affordable, long-tenor credit, export guarantees, and insurance facilities to reduce financing constraints faced by exporters. The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) should intensify support for non-oil exporters. Nigeria should strategically utilize the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to expand regional exports.