The Central Bank of Nigeria has issued a fresh warning to the public, cautioning against individuals and groups fraudulently claiming to represent the apex bank in offering fake contracts, grants, and financial intervention schemes.

In a statement released on Monday and signed by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Halima Sidi Ali, the bank reiterated that it has not authorised any person or organisation to act on its behalf in providing such services.

“The attention of the Central Bank of Nigeria has once again been drawn to the activities of individuals and groups falsely claiming to represent or act on behalf of the CBN,” the statement read.

“These actors continue to circulate fictitious offers of contracts, loans, grants, intervention funds, and other financial benefits allegedly issued or endorsed by the CBN.”

Despite a prior public advisory issued on November 18, 2024, the apex bank noted that fraudulent messages continue to spread across email, phone calls, SMS, WhatsApp, and social media platforms.

The CBN stressed that it does not conduct business through unsolicited communication or demand payment in exchange for contracts or financial aid. “The CBN does not appoint intermediaries or agents to offer financial services or opportunities on its behalf,” the statement emphasized.

The bank urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious approaches to law enforcement agencies or the nearest CBN office.

“If you are contacted by anyone claiming to represent the Central Bank with offers of financial grants or contracts, do not engage. Report such attempts immediately,” the statement advised.

The CBN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians from financial fraud and said it is working closely with security agencies to investigate and clamp down on scammers.