The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has cautioned Nigerians against mishandling the naira, warning that folding, tearing, spraying at social events, and writing on the notes undermine the dignity of the national currency and raise the cost of replacement.
Deputy Governor, Operations, Bala Bello, gave the warning in Abuja on Wednesday at the flag-off of a nationwide sensitisation campaign themed “Naira Our Pride: Handle with Care.” He was represented by the Director, Currency Operations and Branch Management Department, Sikiru Adetona.
Bello also urged citizens to avoid hoarding cash ahead of the festive season, saying such practices disrupt circulation and put pressure on the financial system. He encouraged Nigerians to adopt alternative payment channels to ease reliance on cash.
“The naira is more than a means of payment. It represents our national pride, our sovereignty, and our shared destiny as a people. Unfortunately, careless practices undermine its dignity and increase the cost of maintaining it. This campaign is not just a central bank initiative; it is a call to collective action,” he said.
The apex bank assured that it had made sufficient arrangements to ensure adequate supply of banknotes during the yuletide. Adetona, represented by Deputy Director Kazeem Olatinwo, stressed that proper handling was essential to keeping the notes clean and fit for use, adding that the campaign also aimed at building public confidence in the naira.
CBN Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Ali, described respect for the naira as a civic duty. “The naira is our critical symbol of national identity. Do not spray, hawk or mutilate it. From today, all Nigerians are implored to be advocates and ambassadors of clean naira notes,” she said.
The sensitisation roadshow will be extended to schools, markets, motor parks, and communities nationwide to spread the message.
