The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong warning to the public, reiterating that it has not authorized any individuals, groups, or organizations to act as intermediaries or agents offering contracts, financial grants, loans, or intervention funds on its behalf.
This statement, released on Monday, comes as part of the CBN’s ongoing efforts to protect Nigerians from fraudulent schemes and misleading claims that exploit the bank’s name and reputation.
In a detailed press release signed by Mrs. Halima Sidi Ali, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, the CBN expressed concern over the persistent activities of unscrupulous individuals and entities falsely claiming to represent the bank.
These fraudulent actors have been circulating fictitious offers, including promises of contracts, loans, grants, and other financial benefits, which they claim are endorsed or issued by the CBN. The bank emphasized that these schemes are entirely unauthorized and urged the public to remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to such deceptive tactics.
The CBN noted that this is not the first time it has addressed this issue. On November 18, 2024, the bank issued a public advisory through its official communication channels and various news outlets, warning Nigerians about these fraudulent activities.
Despite this earlier clarification, the CBN stated that the misleading schemes have continued unabated, targeting unsuspecting individuals with false narratives designed to exploit their trust in the institution.
These fraudulent offers are often disseminated through unsolicited communications, including emails, phone calls, text messages (SMS), WhatsApp messages, and social media platforms, creating the illusion of legitimacy by invoking the CBN’s name.
To set the record straight, the CBN categorically stated that it does not engage intermediaries or third parties to offer financial services, contracts, grants, or intervention funds to the public.
The bank further clarified that it does not disburse funds or award contracts through unsolicited communications, nor does it request payments or fees in exchange for such opportunities. Any claims suggesting otherwise, according to the CBN, are fraudulent and should be treated with suspicion.
The CBN also provided guidance for the public on how to respond to such fraudulent approaches. It advised Nigerians not to engage with individuals or entities making these false claims and to report such incidents immediately to the appropriate law enforcement agencies or the nearest CBN branch.
The bank emphasized the importance of verifying the authenticity of any financial offers or opportunities purportedly linked to the CBN by contacting the bank directly through its official channels.
In its commitment to safeguarding the financial interests of Nigerians, the CBN reassured the public that it is working closely with security agencies to investigate and curb these fraudulent activities.
The bank vowed to take decisive action against those found to be involved in such schemes, ensuring that perpetrators face the full consequences of the law.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
This latest warning underscores the CBN’s dedication to maintaining public trust and protecting Nigerians from financial scams.
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