Central Bank of Nigeria has cut benchmark interest rate to 26.5%, signalling cautious shift towards easing January 2026 data shows inflation easing slightly to 15.10%, bolstering confidence in gradual policy easing Financial analysts suggest lower rates could ease pressure on businesses and households in Nigeria's economy Pascal Oparada is a journalist with Legit.ng, covering technology, energy, stocks, investment, and the economy for over a decade. Nigeria’s monetary authorities have signalled a cautious shift toward easing, as the Central Bank of Nigeria trimmed its benchmark interest rate to 26.5 per cent. The decision marks the second rate cut in five months and reflects growing confidence that inflationary pressures are gradually subsiding. Olayemi Cardoso-led Central Bank of Ni...