In a statement released on Monday, the CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi-Ali, said the bank’s attention had once again been drawn to the activities of fraudsters falsely claiming to represent or act on behalf of the CBN.
“These actors continue to circulate fictitious offers of contracts, loans, grants, intervention funds, and other financial benefits allegedly issued or endorsed by the CBN,” the statement read.
The bank noted that despite a public advisory issued on November 18, 2024, such fraudulent schemes have continued, targeting unsuspecting members of the public with misleading claims.
The CBN emphasized that it has not authorised, licensed, or appointed any individual, group, or organisation to act as an intermediary for contracts, financial grants, or intervention funds. It also reiterated that it does not endorse such claims in any capacity.
“Members of the public are advised that the Central Bank of Nigeria does not award contracts or disburse funds through unsolicited communications such as emails, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, or any social media platform,” the statement warned.
The apex bank further stated that it does not require payment of any fees in exchange for such purported benefits and does not engage intermediaries or third parties for financial services to the public.
“If you are approached by individuals or entities making such claims, we strongly advise that you do not engage with them. Instead, such incidents should be reported immediately to the relevant law enforcement agencies or the nearest CBN Branch,” the bank advised.
The CBN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the financial interests of Nigerians and said it is working closely with security agencies to investigate and curb fraudulent activities.
