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By Emmanuel Adeleke
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed commercial banks in the country to work on Saturdays till January 31, 2023, to enable customers return existing naira notes.
Recall that CBN had announced plans to redesign the N200, N500, and N1,000 notes, and release the new notes by December 15, 2022.
Speaking at the CBN fair, themed, ‘Promoting financial stability and economic development, in Ilorin,
Kwara State, on Thursday, the Director, Corporate Communications Department, Osita Nwasinobi, said the existing notes shall remain legal tender until January 31, 2023.
Nwasinobi, who was represented by apex bank’s acting Director, Corporate Communications, Akpama Uket, said that
Deposit Money Banks have been directed to immediately start returning the existing currencies to the CBN.
“They have also been instructed to receive the existing banknotes beyond the threshold stipulated by the cashless policy without charges to customers.
“Consequently, you must return all the current N200, N500, and N1,000 notes to your bank before the expiration of the deadline,” he said.
He also warned Nigerians about the consequences of mishandling naira notes, saying: “Let me also reiterate the need to handle the naira with care. The naira remains a symbol of our national pride. Treat it with utmost dignity.
“Do not spray, squeeze or counterfeit the naira, as default goes with consequences.”