Breaking: CBN shuts down Cryptocurrency exchange in Nigeria, Nigerians react

The Central Bank of Nigeria has directed finanicial institutions to shut down bank accounts dealing in crypto currencies or facilitating payments for cryptocurrency exchanges.

This was disclosed in a letter dated February 5, 2021, sent to financial institutions in Nigeria

The Letter reads:

“February 5, 2021

LETTER TO ALL DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS, NON-BANK FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

The Central of Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) circular of January 12, 2017 ref FPR/DIR/GEN/C1R,06/010 which cautioned Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), Other Financial Institutions (OFIs) and members of the pubic so the risk associated with transactions In crypto currency refers.

Father to earlier regulatory directives on the subject, the Bank hereby wishes to remind regulated institutions that dealing in crypto curencies 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 tier systemsand 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.”

Meanwhile, Nigerians have since taken to social media to call out the CBN over the decision. See reactions below.