The Naira of Nigeria

The Naira was a major international exchange currency during the 1970's even attaining a rate of exchange of 2 Nairas to the US Dollar at the time of its first issue in 1973 in place of the Pound. Nowadays, after serious monetary devaluation, 1 US Dollar is equivalent to over 160 Nairas.

The Naira is subdivided into 100 Kobos. Few of the latter are currently in circulation due to the devaluation of the Nigerian currency. The only coins in current circulation are of 50 Kobos, and 1 et 2 Nairas.

Where banknotes are concerned, in the 1990's banknotes ceased to exist, except for the 5,10 and 20 Naira notes. But, by contrast with the fate of the coins although still due to the growing inflation, 50, 100, 200, 500 and even 1,000 Naira banknotes have been introduced in the years 2000.

The 1 Naira banknote carries the image of a mask on its reverse side. The sculpting of masks is a major art form in Africa. The shapes, sizes and materials are many and varied. When they represent animals, they are supposed to bring their characteristic qualities to the bearer. When they are in the form of human faces, they tend to be those of sorcerers, who mediate between the divine and human dimensions. Nigerian traditions and customs are also presented on the 5 Naira bill with the ritual dances of the Nkpokiti troupe.