CBN RAISES ALARM ON FRAUDULENT CLAIMS AND FICTITIOUS CONTRACTS

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has again reiterated 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 and does not endorse or support such claims in any form.

The bank in a statement disclosed that its attention has again been drawn to the activities of individuals and groups falsely claiming to represent or act on its behalf and have continue to circulate fictitious offers of contracts, loans, grants, intervention funds, and other financial benefits allegedly issued or endorsed by the CBN.

Hakama Sidi Ali, Acting Director, Corporate Communication stated that despite the public advisory issued on November 18, 2024, through the Bank’s official channels and news outlets, these misleading schemes have persisted, targeting unsuspecting members of the public with false and deceptive narratives.

“Members of the public are advised that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not award contracts or disburse funds through unsolicited communications such as emails, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, or any social media platform,” she added.

Sidi-Ali also emphasises that the bank does not request payment of fees in exchange for contracts, grants, or financial interventions, nor does it engage intermediaries or third parties to offer financial services or opportunities to the public.

She therefore advised the public not to engage with persons or entities who approach them with such claims and instead, report such incidents immediately to the relevant law enforcement agencies or the nearest CBN Branch.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, the statement said 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.