The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), says it is liaising with the Body of Banks CEOs to address the current challenges.
To this end, the banks will continue to remain open to serve the public as long as it is safe to do so, assured the President/Chairman of Council, CIBN, Dr. Ken Opara, in a statement on Friday
The statement reads further: “The safety and security of staff of banks is of paramount importance. Hence, where there is a security challenge, the Management of banks have been empowered to take proactive measures to close operations in such locations and inform the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
“Therefore, the safety concerns being expressed in various quarters are already being addressed.
“Banks will continue to ensure that adequate security is in place to protect staff and customers whilst safeguarding the assets of the banks in contending with the current challenge.
“Consequently, we appeal to the general public to remain calm and eschew any act of violence as the banking industry remains resolute and committed to finding ways to address all the related issues.”
Opara also sued for continued patience and understanding, as banks work towards restoring normalcy.
Consequently, we appeal to the general public to remain calm and eschew any act of violence as the banking industry remains resolute and committed to finding ways to address all the related issues.
The CIBN reassurance comes as the CBN clarified the confusion regarding the continued acceptance of the old N500 and N1,000 notes.
In a statement signed by the Director, Corporate Communications, Osita Nwanisobi, on Friday, the apex bank described the claims as “fake and unauthorized”.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Central Bank of Nigeria has been drawn to some fake and unauthorized messages quoting the CBN as having authorized the Deposit Money Banks to collect the old N500 and N1,000 Banknotes.
“For the avoidance of doubt, and in line with Mr President’s broadcast of February 16, 2023, the CBN has been directed to ONLY reissue and recirculates the old N200 banknotes and this is expected to circulate as legal tender for 60 days up to April 10, 2023.
“Members of the public should therefore disregard any message and/or information not formally released by the Central Bank of Nigeria on this subject.”
