Interest Rates in Nigeria: An Analytical Perspective

Abstract

This paper set out to examine the implications of interest rate for savings and investment in Nigeria. It used data obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Data were analyzed using Pearson's Correlation Coefficient and regression. Evidence showed interest rate as a poor determinant of savings and investment indicating that bank loans are mostly not used for productive purposes. Therefore, bank loans should be channeled to productive investments if interest is to play its catalytic role in the Nigerian economy.