THE IMPACT OF EXCHANGE RATE FLUCTUATIONS ON EXPORTS PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA

This study examines the relationship between exchange rate fluctuations and Nigeria's export performance with the overarching objective of assessing their impact on the country's economic development. The research aims to determine the extent to which exchange rate changes influence total exports and, consequently, the overall economic growth of Nigeria. Employing secondary data from the statistical Bulletin of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the analysis focuses on the relationship between exchange rates(EXR), interest rates(INT), inflation rates(INF), and trade balance(EX) as independent variables, and the GDP as the dependent variable. The findings reveal that inflation rates negatively affect GDP, while interest rates have a positive impact. Exchange rate volatility exhibits a negative correlation with GDP growth. The study concludes that exchange rate fluctuations significantly influence Nigeria’s economic performance, particularly its production capacity. Therefore, the implementation of an effective exchange rate regime is imperative. Such a regime would mitigate inflationary pressures enhance Nigeria’s balance of trade and bolster its production capabilities, ultimately fostering positive economic growth