The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong warning to the public regarding fraudulent schemes involving fake contracts and grant awards allegedly being offered in the name of the apex bank.
In an official statement released on Monday and signed by the CBN's acting spokesperson, Hakama Sidi-Ali, the bank categorically disowned all such offers, describing them as fraudulent activities designed to deceive unsuspecting Nigerians.
The warning comes amid increasing reports of individuals and groups falsely claiming to act on behalf of the CBN regarding contracts and grants, despite a previous public advisory issued on November 18, 2024.
"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 read.
The apex bank emphasized that it does not award contracts or disburse funds through unsolicited communications such as emails, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, or any social media platform. Additionally, the CBN clarified that it never requests payment of fees in exchange for contracts, grants, or financial interventions.
The bank further stated that it does not engage intermediaries or third parties to offer financial services or opportunities to the public, nor does it endorse or support such claims in any form.
Members of the public who encounter individuals or entities making such claims are strongly advised not to engage with them. Instead, the CBN urges that such incidents be reported immediately to relevant law enforcement agencies or the nearest CBN branch.
"The Central Bank of Nigeria remains committed to safeguarding the financial interests of the Nigerian public and continues to work closely with security agencies to investigate and address fraudulent activities," the statement concluded.
This warning serves as a reminder for Nigerians to remain vigilant against financial scams, particularly those that falsely claim association with government institutions like the CBN.
