The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has, in furtherance to its zero tolerance for cash flow disruptions, sanctioned Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) for failing to make Naira notes available through automated teller machines (ATMs) during the yuletide season.

Each bank was fined ₦150 million for non-compliance, in line with the CBN’s cash distribution guidelines and following spot checks on their branches. The enforcement action follows repeated warnings from the CBN to financial institutions to guarantee seamless cash availability, particularly during periods of high demand.

The affected banks include Fidelity Bank Plc, First Bank Plc, Keystone Bank Plc, Union Bank Plc, Globus Bank Plc, Providus Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc, and Sterling Bank Plc. The fines would be debited directly from their accounts with the apex bank.

The Acting Director of Corporate Communications at the CBN, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali confirmed the development, saying: “Ensuring seamless cash flow is paramount to maintaining public trust and economic stability.

“The CBN will not hesitate to impose further sanctions on any institution found violating its cash circulation guidelines.”

According to CBN, investigations and monitoring will continue to scrutinise cash hoarding and rationing both at bank branches and by Point-of-Sale (POS) operators. The Central Bank is also working with security agencies to crack down on illegal cash sales and operational violations, including enforcing POS operators’ daily cumulative withdrawal limit of N1.2 million.

CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, in his address at the Annual Bankers’ Dinner of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in November 2024, warned banks to strictly adhere to cash distribution policies or face severe penalties.

He highlighted CBN’s commitment to maintaining a robust cash buffer to meet Nigerians’ needs, saying: “Our focus remains on fostering trust, ensuring stability, and guaranteeing seamless cash circulation across the financial system.”

The CBN has mandated all financial institutions to comply with its guidelines, warning that further violations would attract swift and decisive sanctions.

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