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Daniel Adaji
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has urged Nigerians to immediately report any suspicious offers of contracts, grants, loans, or financial aid that claim to originate from the apex bank.
In a statement issued by the apex bank on Monday, it warned that fraudsters continue to deceive unsuspecting members of the public with fake promises of financial benefits, despite previous advisories.
The bank emphasised that it has not authorised any individual or organisation to act on its behalf in disbursing funds or awarding contracts.
“The attention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has been drawn once again to the activities of individuals and groups falsely claiming to represent or act on behalf of the CBN,” the statement read.
“These actors continue to circulate fictitious offers of contracts, loans, grants, intervention funds, and other financial benefits allegedly issued or endorsed by the CBN,” it added.
The CBN made it clear that it does not appoint agents, intermediaries, or third parties to distribute financial opportunities to the public.
“The CBN wishes to reiterate that it has not authorized, licensed, or appointed any individual, group, or organization to act as an agent or intermediary in offering contracts, financial grants, or intervention funds to the public.
The CBN also does not endorse or support such claims in any form,” the apex bank said.
The bank further warned Nigerians to be wary of unsolicited messages through emails, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, or other social media platforms, stating that it does not use these channels for financial communications.
“Members of the public are advised that the Central Bank of Nigeria does not award contracts or disburse funds through unsolicited communications,” the statement added.
The CBN also clarified that it does not request payments or fees to facilitate any grant, loan, or contract process. It urged members of the public not to engage with suspected scammers, but to report such attempts promptly to security agencies or visit the nearest CBN office.
“If you are approached by individuals or entities making such claims, we strongly advise that you do not engage with them. Such incidents should be reported immediately to the relevant law enforcement agencies or the nearest CBN Branch.”
The apex bank reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigerians from fraudulent schemes and stated that it is working closely with law enforcement agencies to identify and shut down such operations.
This latest advisory follows the bank’s earlier public notice issued on November 18, 2024, as part of its ongoing effort to combat financial fraud and protect public trust.