The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong warning to the public about the growing activities of fraudsters spreading fake offers of contracts, grants, and loans, falsely linked to the apex bank.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs Hakama Sidi-Ali, the CBN reiterated 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.”
Despite a previous public advisory issued on November 18, 2024, the bank noted that deceptive practices have persisted, targeting unsuspecting Nigerians with false promises of financial opportunities.
The CBN made it clear that it does not appoint agents, intermediaries, or third-party organisations to offer any form of financial opportunity to the public.
“The CBN wishes to reiterate that it has not authorised, licensed, or appointed any individual, group, or organisation to act as an agent or intermediary in offering contracts, financial grants, or intervention funds to the public,” the statement stressed.
“The CBN also does not endorse or support such claims in any form.”
The bank further clarified that it does not operate through unsolicited communications such as emails, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp messages, or any other social media platform.
The apex bank also warned that it does not ask for payment or fees in relation to any contracts, grants, or financial programs. It advised the public to reject any such claims and report incidents to relevant law enforcement agencies or 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. Instead, such incidents should be reported immediately,” it urged.
CBN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians from financial scams and stated that it is actively working with security agencies to identify and shut down fraudulent operations exploiting its name.
This warning comes as part of the CBN’s broader efforts to maintain public trust and prevent criminal elements from tarnishing its reputation through deceitful financial schemes.