CBN threatens PoS operators with sanctions over monstrous charges

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has vowed to prosecute Point of Sale (PoS) operators who take exorbitant charges on transactions.

At a meeting with members of the diplomatic corps on Tuesday, CBN Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele said that, while he acknowledged the inconveniences caused by the Naira redesign policy, including hoarding and an elevated agitation, the bank would seek the prosecution of PoS operators who charge above the stipulated amount.

Emefiele admitted that while these are challenging times for Nigerians, they should not be exaggerated especially by people in authority to create panic.

The apex bank boss reiterated the benefits of the Naira redesign policy, arguing that it has helped in reducing inflation and is leading to a moderation in exchange rates.

Emefiele appealed to the diplomatic corps and Nigerians to accept the policy.

He noted that while the transition to embracing the new Naira notes may be challenging, its benefits are enormous and will lead to a cashless policy.

The CBN boss insisted that there is no going back on 10 February deadline.

Emefiele also briefed them on how the nation’s economy is faring but shared concerns about increasing inflation which he attributed to insecurity, elections spending, and the effect of the global market on the economy.

According to him, the nation’s growth rate is at 3.6 percent for 2023, noting that the economy would experience what he called subdued growth owing to the scarcity of petroleum products, increased spending which is being curtailed, and increasing debt levels.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zubair Dada explained that the meeting became necessary as part of efforts to intimate members of the corps of the government’s economic policy as it relates to the naira redesign.

He expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that they go about their duties with ease just as the government takes steps to ameliorate their plight.