BY NGOZI ONYEAKUSI

In a clear message of zero tolerance for cash flow disruptions, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has 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 N150 million for non-compliance, in line with the CBN’s cash distribution guidelines, 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. Communication with the banks revealed that 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, noting that “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,” she added. The CBN’s investigations and monitoring will continue to scrutinise cash hoarding and rationing, both at bank branches and by Point-of-Sale (POS) operators.