The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has urged Nigerians, particularly traders and other frequent users of cash, to handle naira notes with care, pride and dignity as part of efforts to preserve the quality of the country’s currency.
The call was made during a currency-awareness campaign in Kano, where CBN representatives engaged traders and members of the public on the importance of protecting banknotes from avoidable damage.
The campaign emphasised that careless handling contributes to the deterioration of notes and increases the cost of replacing damaged currency.
CBN Highlights the Cost of Damaged Notes
During the sensitisation exercise at Galadima Market, a representative of the CBN’s Currency and Operations Department, Ibrahim Yahya, said the naira represented Nigeria’s sovereignty and national identity.
He encouraged traders to handle banknotes carefully, explaining that preserving their condition could extend their useful life and reduce the frequency with which damaged notes must be replaced.
Markets were selected for the campaign because traders handle large volumes of cash during daily transactions.
The bank said the initiative would also be extended to other major markets in Kano State.
Practical Steps to Preserve Banknotes
The CBN’s message encourages the public to avoid practices that unnecessarily damage currency.
These include tearing notes, writing on them, stapling them, exposing them to moisture or folding them in ways that cause excessive wear.
Proper handling can help maintain the physical condition of banknotes and support their continued use in everyday transactions.
The campaign also places responsibility on businesses and individuals who regularly handle cash to preserve notes before depositing them or passing them to other users.
Why Currency Preservation Matters
Banknotes deteriorate through frequent circulation, exposure to dirt and moisture, and physical damage.
Central banks periodically replace unfit notes to maintain the quality and usability of cash in circulation.
Although some deterioration is inevitable, careless handling can accelerate the process and increase the operational burden associated with sorting and replacing damaged currency.
The CBN’s campaign seeks to reduce avoidable damage through public education rather than relying exclusively on the replacement of worn-out notes.
A Shared Responsibility
The awareness campaign reinforces the importance of public participation in maintaining the quality of Nigeria’s currency.
Traders, transport operators, businesses and ordinary consumers all contribute to the condition of banknotes through their daily handling practices.
The CBN has urged Nigerians to treat the naira with pride and dignity, presenting currency preservation as a shared responsibility between the monetary authorities and the public.