President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has obtained his approval to allow the old N200 note to remain in circulation until April 10.
Buhari made this known in a nationwide broadcast on Thursday.
In October 2022, the CBN began the implementation of its naira redesign policy with the introduction of new N200, N500 and N1,000 notes.
The apex bank announced that the old N200, N500 and N1,000 would cease to be legal tender on January 31, 2023 but the deadline was extended to February 10, 2023, following an outcry about the non-availability of the new notes.
On February 8, while ruling on an ex parte application filed by three states, the Supreme Court temporarily suspended the February 10 deadline pending the determination of the substantive suit on Wednesday, February 15.
On Wednesday, the apex court adjourned hearing in the suit to February 22.
In his nationwide broadcast, the president said that the old N200 note would remain in circulation until April 10 but the old N500 and N1,000 notes have ceased to be legal tender.
“Let me re-assure Nigerians, that strengthening our economy, enhancing security and blockage of leakages associated with illicit financial flows remain top priority of our administration. And I shall remain committed to my oath of protecting and advancing the interest of Nigerians and the nation, at all times.
“In the last quarter of 2022, I authorised the Central Bank of Nigeria to redesign the N200, N500, and N1000 Nigerian banknotes.For a smooth transition, I similarly approved that the redesigned banknotes should circulate concurrently with the old bank notes, till 31 January 2023, before the old notes, cease to be legal tender.
“During the extended phase of the deadline for currency swap, (from Jnuary 31 till February 10) I listened to invaluable pieces of advice from well meaning citizens and institutions across the nation.
“I similarly consulted widely with representatives of the State Governors as well as the Council of State. Above all, as an administration that respects the rule of law, I have also noted that the subject matter is before the courts of our land and some pronouncements have been made.
“To further ease the supply pressures particularly to our citizens, I have given approval to the CBN that the old N200 bank notes be released back into circulation and that it should also be allowed to circulate as legal tender with the new N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes for 60 days from February 10, 2023 to April 10 2023 when the old N200 notes ceases to be legal tender,” Buhari said.
He added, “In line with Section 20(3) of the CBN Act 2007, all existing old N1000 and N500 notes remain redeemable at the CBN and designated points. I admonish every citizen to strive harder to make their deposits by taking advantage of the platforms and windows being provided by the CBN.”
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