Recently released survey report by the CBN shows an improvement in the availability of secured and unsecured banks credit and loans to households, corporate and small businesses in 2017Q3, and an optimistic outlook in 2017Q4. Among other indices, availability of overall secured and unsecured lending to households improved from -6.2 and -19.2 to -0.9 and -15.0 index points respectively; although still in the negative territory. Index for availability of credit to small businesses improved from -20.1 to -6.7. Lenders and respondents noted that anticipation of a brighter economic outlook, favorable liquidity positions, market share objectives and higher appetite for risk were major factors behind the increase. 

Gross Domestic Product Growth Rate: The growth performance of the Oil and Gas sector has been unsteady throughout years and declined most significantly in 2015Q4, following a positive growth recorded

Power sector statistics show a significant increase in power generated from August 12 to August 19, 2016. Precisely, power generated increased by 2.2 percent to 3953.6MW(a 4-month high). Increased water reserves in dams for hydro generating plants occasioned by seasonal adjustments (rainy season), led to improved power generation. Additionally, in a bid to further improve and sustain power generation, the federal government received a $100 million credit facility from India. However, consistent power supply could be jeopardized if the development is not aided by improved distribution by DISCOs.

The Nigeria Stock Exchange market advanced further as equity indices pitched higher in the review week. Benchmark indices, All-share Index and Market Capitalization rose by 1.5 percent to settle at remarkable points, 37,425 and N12.90 trillion respectively an exceptional first-time record in more than two years. The uptrend has been sustained by stronger demand for investment securities due to outstanding H1 performance reports submitted by some listed companies during the week10.