Abstract

J-Curve is a term used to describe the impact of currency devaluation on a country’s balance of trade. In carrying out the study, two objectives stated which are; the validation of the j-curve hypothesis in the short (SR) and long runs (LR). Also, the researcher used the OLS in addition to distributed lag model because exchange rate devaluation does not take effect immediately giving room for lag model effect. The study span from 1985-2014. The study adopted its model from Rose and Yellen (1989) and Rose (1990). The unit root test was used to determine the stationarity of the data. From the results, the OLS result showed delayed J-curve hypothesis. Under the distributed lag (DL), the result shows obedience to the J-curve hypothesis. It is concluded that, policy makers should implement the theory only when the aggregate exchange rate differential between export (non oil) and import (all) is continuously greater than one or equal to one in favour of export (non oil export). One of the recommendations of the study is that policy makers should know that in the current competitive globe, no importing economy will relax to see its economy be a dumping ground (import bias), so superior trade policies should be advocated and implemented. The sustenance of development is one of Nigeria’s challenges. The major policy implication of the study is that Nigeria should diversify the economy, deepen its non oil export and improve its infrastructural base.

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