The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has insisted that banks will remain open as long as bankers’ safety is guaranteed.
WITHIN NIGERIA recalls that there have been pockets of violent agitation across Nigeria as a result of Nigerians’ inability to obtain the new 200, 500, and 1000 naira notes from banks.
Most banks have had to close due to recent attacks on their facilities in response to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s new policy, which is supported by President Muhammadu Buhari.
President Buhari was forced to address the nation last Monday due to the country’s monetary crisis. He declared that the old N200 note would still be legal tender until April 10, 2023. He also urged Nigerians to deposit their old N500 and N1000 notes with the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Despite this, some irate Nigerians are still agitating in some quarters because they are still unable to obtain cash from banks.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the CIBN stated on Friday that it was working to resolve the issues caused by the redesign of the notes.
While declaring that banks would remain open to serve the general public, the professional body insisted that the safety of bank employees is its top priority.
A statement signed by the President/Chairman of CIBN, Ken Opara, read in parts:
Therefore, the safety concerns being expressed in various quarters are already being addressed.
Banks will continue to ensure that adequate security is in place to protect staff and customers whilst safeguarding the assets of the banks in contending with the current challenge.
Consequently, we appeal to the general public to remain calm and eschew any act of violence as the banking industry remains resolute and committed to finding ways to address all the related issues.