As a gift card trader, one of the most important things to consider is timing. Gift card rates never stay the same for long – one minute your $100 Steam card is worth a small fortune, and the next day it’s suddenly looking like a bad investment decision.
So the big question becomes: When exactly is the best time to trade gift cards in Nigeria?
The short answer is that it depends. But, this doesn’t have to be so confusing. Let’s break it down properly so you know exactly when to trade and get the highest value for your card.
1. Trade When Your Gift Card Type Is Hot
Some cards trend, and some fall off.
A few popular high-demand cards in Nigeria typically include:
- Apple / iTunes
- Steam
- Sephora
- Amazon
- Google Play
- Razer Gold
- VISA & MasterCard
For these cards, you can always get good rates – especially when you trade with a reputable platform like Exchanger101. So, for these cards, any time is a good time.
2. Trade at Peak Hours (Daily Timing Matters Too)
Just like the stock market, the gift card market has its own “active hours.”
The best daily trading window in Nigeria is usually between 9AM and 5PM. During these periods, traders are online, and payment systems are most active.
If you’re a night trader, you want to make sure you trade with a platform that offers 24/7 support and can pay you when you need it. This is why Exchanger101 is a great platform to use. Our support services are always available, and you can easily reach out to us AT ANY TIME.
3. Trade When the FX Market Is Stable
Nigeria is a country where USD/NGN rates can switch vibes overnight.
When the Naira weakens:
- Gift card rates usually rise
- You get paid more in Naira
When the Naira strengthens:
- Gift card rates usually drop
So another good time to trade is when rates are on the rise and you can get more value for your money. Remember to always check the FX situation for the day, so you know when to trade.
4. Trade When Demand Is High
Gift card rates rise and fall based on demand. When more buyers are actively looking for certain cards, the rate naturally goes up.
In Nigeria, card rates tend to be pretty high during festive seasons. So, everything from Christmas to New Year to Black Friday is a pretty good time. People are getting more cards from abroad, and traders are also very active.
Other peak seasons include:
- The back-to-school season (between August and September)
- Payday periods, such as the end of every month and the beginning of every month
So… What’s the Best Time to Trade Gift Cards in Nigeria?
Honestly, there’s no single magical hour to trade. However, understanding market demand, FX rates, seasons, and card trends will help you get the highest possible payout.

