9 Banks Slammed With N1.35 Billion Fine For Non-Compliance With CBN’s Cash Dispensing Directive

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has sent a strong message to Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) by sanctioning them for failing to dispense Naira notes through automated teller machines (ATMs) during the yuletide season.

Each of the nine affected banks, including 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, received a fine of ₦150 million for non-compliance with the CBN’s cash distribution guidelines.

This move is part of the CBN’s efforts to ensure seamless cash availability, particularly during periods of high demand. The apex bank had previously warned financial institutions to guarantee cash availability or face severe penalties.

The CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, emphasized that the bank will continue to monitor cash hoarding and rationing, and work with security agencies to address illegal cash sales and operational violations.

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. The Central Bank is 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.

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

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