The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Friday directed banks in the country to close all cryptocurrency-related accounts.
The apex bank made this known in a statement on Friday.
The statement reads:
“The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) circular of January 12, 2017 ref FPR/DIR/ GEN/CIR/06/010 which cautioned Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), Other Financial Institutions (OFIs) and members of the public on the risk associated with transactions in crypto currency refers.
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“Further to earlier directives on the subject, the Bank hereby wishes to remind regulated institutions that dealing in crypto currencies or facilitating payments for cryptocurrency exchanges is prohibited.
“Accordingly, all DMBs, NBFIs and OFIs are directed to identify persons and/or entities transacting in or operating crypto currency exchanges within their systems and ensure that such accounts are closed immediately.
“Please note that breaches of this directive will attract severe regulatory sanctions.
“This letter is with immediate effect.”
Senior Correspondent,
Lagos Post Online
