By Opeoluwa Okudero 
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a renewed warning to the public about the rising spread of fraudulent messages offering fake contracts, grants, loans, and intervention funds, allegedly from the apex bank. According to a statement from Sidi Ali Hakama, Acting Director of Corporate Communications, the CBN disassociates itself from such unsolicited offers, stressing that the bank does not operate through informal communication channels.
“The CBN has not authorised, licensed, or appointed any individual, group, or organisation to act on its behalf in offering contracts, financial grants, or intervention funds to the public,” the statement emphasized. “The Bank does not support or endorse such fraudulent claims in any form.”
A Familiar Pattern of Deception
These scams typically involve unsolicited emails, text messages, WhatsApp chats, or phone calls claiming to offer quick access to CBN-backed contracts or funds. In some cases, recipients are asked to pay a “processing fee” or submit sensitive information. The CBN reiterated that it never requests payments in exchange for contracts or financial support, nor does it engage third parties for such services.
Although similar warnings were issued as recently as November 2024, the recurrence of these scams indicates persistent attempts by fraudsters to exploit the trust Nigerians place in official institutions. The apex bank urged individuals to rely only on its official website and verified communication channels to obtain accurate information about any ongoing programs or opportunities.
Staying Alert in a Digital Age
With Nigeria’s economic challenges creating fertile ground for fraud, the CBN emphasized the importance of public vigilance. As digital and mobile communication grow, scams like these are likely to increase in frequency and sophistication. The bank encouraged citizens to be cautious, question suspicious financial offers, and report any such activity to the authorities.
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