The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong warning to the public, urging Nigerians to disregard any unsolicited offers of contracts, loans, grants, or intervention funds purportedly from the apex bank.
In a statement signed by Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, and released on May 12, 2025, the CBN described the schemes as fraudulent and reaffirmed that the bank does not operate through agents, intermediaries, or third parties for the award of contracts or disbursement of financial support.
Okay.ng reports that this is not the first time the CBN has raised alarm over such activities. The Bank said a public advisory was previously issued on November 18, 2024, but noted that despite the warning, scammers have continued circulating deceptive messages across various platforms.
“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.”
The apex bank stressed that it does not communicate such opportunities via unsolicited emails, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, or social media channels.
It also warned that the CBN does not request upfront payments or fees in exchange for any purported financial services or opportunities.
“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 bank clarified.
