As the Naira continues to appreciate against the U.S. Dollar, concerns are mounting among Nigerians who hold large sums in foreign currency. For many, the fear is that what once served as a hedge against volatility in the Nigerian economy may now be eroding in value. This concern was echoed by an investor who recently disclosed that his savings of over $150,000, which was valued at about ₦260 million in January, has now dropped to around ₦230 million following the Naira’s rebound.

Responding to such anxieties, financial planner and CEO of MTWI Financial Services, Ifeoluwa Adegoke, explained that dollar savings should not be seen as a short-term play but rather as a long-term wealth preservation strategy, ideally spanning two to five years. She stressed that while currency fluctuations are inevitable, a structured approach to investment can protect and even grow wealth during periods of exchange rate volatility.

According to Adegoke, one of the mistakes many people make is leaving their dollar reserves idle in bank accounts. She emphasized that there are low-risk investment instruments that can generate between 7 to 8 percent in passive income annually, providing a buffer against currency losses. At the same time, she encouraged investors to periodically rebalance their portfolios in response to changing economic conditions. With Nigeria showing relative macroeconomic stability, she suggested that converting a portion of dollar holdings into Naira and investing in local opportunities could yield attractive returns of at least 20 percent per annum.

She further advised that Nigerians with dollar savings should look outward as well, particularly towards the U.S. stock market. By diversifying into global equities, investors not only hedge against local currency risk but also position themselves for higher growth opportunities abroad. However, she cautioned strongly against panic-driven decisions, urging instead for deliberate and strategic portfolio adjustments that reflect both long-term goals and present realities.

For Adegoke, the key lies in having a plan. “Currency volatility is inevitable, but with proper planning, you can protect your wealth and even take advantage of market opportunities,” she noted. To this end, she is offering free consultations to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, guiding them to structure their finances in a way that balances safety, profitability, and long-term vision.

Her intervention highlights a growing conversation around wealth management in Nigeria, where traditional reliance on foreign currency savings is being tested by shifting economic conditions. As the Naira gains strength, voices like Adegoke’s are urging investors to think beyond reactionary moves and instead adopt strategies that transform uncertainty into opportunity.

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU