CBN Urges Nigerians To Protect Naira’s Dignity – Avoid Currency Abuse

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has called on Nigerians to uphold the dignity of the naira and avoid practices that undermine its value.

Gatekeepers News reports that speaking at the CBN Fair in Lagos on Tuesday, Hakama Sidi-Ali, the bank’s acting director of corporate communications, said the sensitisation campaign aimed to engage directly with stakeholders on policies promoting financial inclusion, growth, and economic development.

He said, “Our core objective is to sensitise members of the public on how the bank’s policies and innovations can enhance their lives and livelihoods.”

“We also urge you to preserve the dignity of our currency by avoiding abuse, do not spray, hawk, mutilate, or counterfeit the naira. Respect and keep it clean.”

The event brought together entrepreneurs, financial institutions, fintech companies, market leaders, students, youth groups, and consumer protection agencies.

Paul Onuoha from the CBN’s currency operations department educated participants on identifying counterfeit notes and the security features of the naira, describing it as one of the most secure currencies in the world.

Sunday Daibo, CBN’s branch controller in Lagos, described the fair as more than a showcase of initiatives, calling it “a collective commitment to economic stability, financial inclusion, and national development.”

He stressed the importance of alternative payment channels in reaching underserved communities.

Ayodeji Ojo from the CBN’s OFI supervision department explained how the unit works to protect savings, promote access to credit, and strengthen public trust in licensed institutions.

Other speakers discussed open banking, payment innovations, and how a strong naira can attract investment and boost economic growth.