Nigeria's Overall Balance (% of GDP): Net Lending/Borrowing Trends and Forecasts (1990-2029)

Nigeria’s fiscal performance has been closely tied to oil price fluctuations. Surpluses, such as 8.8% in 2006, occurred during periods of high oil prices, while downturns, including -8.6% in 1993 and -5.6% in 2020, reflected economic and revenue shocks.

Recent years have seen persistent deficits averaging -5%, exacerbated by pandemic-related challenges. Projections for 2029 indicate a modest deficit of -4.2%, emphasizing the need for economic diversification and revenue reforms to stabilize fiscal health.