Banks Will Be Shutdown If Bankers Are Not Safe – CIBN Warns

The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has insisted that the banks will remain open provided that the safety of bankers remains guaranteed.

Naija News recalls that there have been pockets of violent agitations across Nigeria due to the inability of Nigerians to access the new 200, 500, and 1000 naira notes from the banks.

Most banks have had to close down due to the attacks on the banks’ facilities in recent days over the new policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria, backed by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Due to the monetary crisis across the country, President Buhari had to address the country last Monday. He announced that the old N200 note would continue to be accepted as legal tender until April 10, 2023. He also urged Nigerians to deposit their old N500 and N1000 notes with the CBN.

Despite that, some irate Nigerians are still agitating in some quarters since they are still struggling to access cash from the banks.

In reaction to the ongoing crisis, the CIBN said on Friday that they were working to overcome the current problems caused by the redesign of the notes.

While declaring that the banks would stay open to serve the general public, the professional body insisted that bank employees’ safety is its 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.”