“No More Dirty Money”: CBN Vows to Release Fresh, Clean Notes

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has pledged to end the circulation of dirty, torn, and mutilated naira notes by ensuring that Nigerians have access to fresh and clean banknotes.

Speaking at the CBN Special Day during the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Ali, said the naira is not just a medium of exchange but also a symbol of national pride and identity. She urged Nigerians to respect the currency by avoiding acts such as spraying at social events, hawking, mutilating, or counterfeiting.

“The naira is our national symbol, and its integrity must be protected. We must all become ambassadors of clean naira notes,” Ali declared.

She also highlighted the bank’s broader commitment to financial stability, revealing that Nigeria’s external reserves have risen to **$43.05 billion as of September 11, 2025**, up from $40.51 billion recorded at the end of July. According to her, this reflects stronger foreign exchange inflows and renewed investor confidence in the economy.

The CBN disclosed that 14 commercial banks have already met the recapitalization requirement, while others are being closely monitored to ensure full compliance and safeguard depositors’ funds.

Ali further explained that the apex bank’s Payment Systems Vision 2028 is designed to boost financial inclusion, enhance transaction security, and improve efficiency across the nation’s payment ecosystem.

While the CBN works to provide cleaner notes, Ali reminded citizens that the success of this initiative depends on their cooperation. She stressed that dirty and mutilated naira notes undermine confidence in the economy and increase replacement costs.

With rising reserves, stronger banks, and a renewed focus on payment reforms, the CBN is sending a clear signal: the era of dirty money in circulation is coming to an end.