Background of the Study
Monetary policy is a key instrument of macroeconomic management in Nigeria, and its influence on consumer spending is an area of considerable interest. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) uses policy instruments—such as adjustments in the policy rate, reserve requirements, and open market operations—to control liquidity and influence borrowing costs (Adeniyi, 2023). These changes affect disposable incomes and the cost of credit, which in turn can alter household spending patterns. For example, a reduction in interest rates may lower the cost of loans, thereby encouraging consumers to increase expenditures on durable goods and services. Conversely, tightening monetary policy might constrain consumer credit, leading to a reduction in overall spending (Chukwu, 2024). Over the past few years, Nigeria’s economic environment has experienced fluctuations driven by global shocks and domestic challenges, making it essential to understand how monetary policy impacts consumer behavior. In addition, factors such as inflation expectations, income uncertainty, and shifts in savings preferences interact with monetary policy signals to shape spending decisions. This study, therefore, seeks to explore the causal relationship between monetary policy measures and consumer spending levels, using recent policy shifts as natural experiments. By analyzing household consumption data alongside policy changes and employing econometric techniques, the research aims to quantify the effect of monetary easing or tightening on consumption behavior. The findings are expected to provide insights for policymakers regarding the calibration of monetary policy to support sustainable economic growth and consumer welfare (Ibrahim, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role of monetary policy in influencing economic activity, there remains considerable uncertainty about its precise effect on consumer spending in Nigeria. Recent policy shifts have not produced uniform outcomes across different income groups and regions. While some evidence suggests that lower interest rates spur consumer spending, other studies have found that factors such as inflation, income volatility, and low consumer confidence may dampen these effects (Adeniyi, 2023). Inconsistencies in data and the complex interplay between monetary signals and household behavior have contributed to an ambiguous policy environment. Moreover, rapid economic fluctuations and external shocks further complicate the transmission mechanism of monetary policy to consumer spending. The problem is compounded by the limited availability of comprehensive data that captures the heterogeneity of consumer behavior in both urban and rural areas. This study seeks to bridge this gap by examining the channels through which monetary policy influences consumer expenditure, identifying any disparities among different demographic segments. The goal is to determine whether current monetary policy instruments are effectively stimulating consumer spending and to offer recommendations for adjustments if necessary (Chukwu, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on Nigerian households across major urban and rural centers over the past decade. It uses macroeconomic data and household surveys. Limitations include data inconsistencies and the challenge of isolating monetary policy effects from other macroeconomic factors.
Definitions of Terms
• Monetary Policy: Central bank actions that regulate the money supply and interest rates.
• Consumer Spending: The total expenditure by households on goods and services.
• Policy Rate: The benchmark interest rate set by the central bank.
• Transmission Channels: Mechanisms through which monetary policy affects economic variables.
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