The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has relaunched its nationwide sensitisation campaign on the proper handling of the naira, warning against folding, spraying, writing on, or mutilating banknotes.
Gatekeepers News reports that the initiative, themed “Naira Our Pride: Handle with Care”, was unveiled on Wednesday in Abuja ahead of the festive season, when demand for cash typically rises.
Bala Bello, CBN deputy governor in charge of operations, said the campaign extends beyond keeping notes clean.
“It is about respecting Nigeria’s national symbol and strengthening confidence in the financial system,” he said.
Represented by Adedeji Adetona, director of operations and branch management, Bello assured that the apex bank has made adequate arrangements to ensure sufficient supply of cash during the yuletide.
“What is needed is proper handling to keep our notes clean and fit for use,” he added.
He described the naira as “more than a means of payment,” calling it a symbol of national pride and sovereignty.
Bello cautioned against “careless practices” such as tearing notes, spraying at social events, and hoarding, which he said increase the cost of printing replacements, frustrate transactions, and undermine public confidence in the currency.
“The Central Bank cannot succeed in this mission alone. Every stakeholder has a role—banks must ensure fit notes circulate, transport operators and traders must discourage note abuse, while schools, religious groups, civil society and the media must amplify this message,” he stressed.
Also speaking, Hakama Sidi-Ali, acting director of corporate communications at the CBN, said the initiative aligns with the bank’s Clean Notes Policy, designed to ensure quality banknotes remain in circulation while promoting digital payment alternatives.
“The naira is our critical symbol of national identity. Do not spray, hawk or mutilate it. From today, all Nigerians are implored to be advocates and ambassadors of clean naira notes,” she said.
The CBN urged all stakeholders to promote responsible use of cash, discourage hoarding, and embrace alternative payment platforms.
