The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has told Nigerians to treat the naira with more respect, saying it is one of the strongest currencies in the world when judged by its design quality and security features. The apex bank said the naira is not just money, but a symbol of national pride, and must be handled with integrity.
Speaking at a CBN fair held in Lagos on August 12, 2025, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, reminded citizens that the bank’s clean currency campaign is aimed at protecting the economy’s foundation. She said clean banknotes represent more than value—they also carry the image, trust, and identity of Nigeria.
During the event, currency expert Mr. Onuoha demonstrated the naira’s security features, including watermarks, microprinting, and raised prints. He explained that these features make it difficult to counterfeit and help maintain trust in the nation’s currency system. According to him, a strong and secure currency not only boosts confidence in financial transactions but also sends a positive message about the country’s economic image.
The CBN warned that defacing or damaging naira notes has far-reaching effects beyond aesthetics. Under the bank’s Clean Note Policy, defaced notes slow down sorting processes, increase the cost of replacing banknotes, and even pose health risks when handled in poor condition. The bank said such actions undermine public trust and reduce the naira’s status as a respected national emblem.
Legal experts, including Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), have stressed that currency abuse is a criminal offence under Section 21 of the CBN Act. Offences such as writing on notes, stapling them, or spraying cash at celebrations carry penalties of up to six months in prison or a fine. One SAN advised Nigerians to adopt better ways of showing appreciation at social events—such as giving neatly enclosed cash or using electronic transfers—rather than engaging in practices that damage the currency and break the law.
The CBN also pointed to the high cost of producing and maintaining the naira. In 2022 alone, the bank spent more than ₦96.5 billion on printing, distributing, and replacing currency. Officials said such expenses put pressure on the national budget and could affect the stability of the financial system if currency abuse continues unchecked.
In addition to its campaign on currency care, the CBN has been active in defending the naira’s value in the foreign exchange (FX) market. Earlier in 2025, the bank injected billions of dollars to stabilise the exchange rate. Data from CSL Stockbrokers put the amount at $4.1 billion, while other estimates suggest as much as $4.7 billion was spent to curb volatility. These interventions provided relief to businesses, importers, and households facing uncertainty in the FX market.
The apex bank said its message goes beyond just keeping notes clean—it is about protecting a key part of the nation’s economic foundation. A well-handled currency helps promote stability, strengthens confidence in the financial system, and preserves Nigeria’s identity at home and abroad.
Mrs. Sidi Ali concluded by urging Nigerians to see every naira note as a reflection of national pride. “The way we treat our currency says a lot about how we value our country,” she said. “Every naira handled with care is a step towards building a stronger, more respected Nigeria.”
