The Business NG - December 24, 2024

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Cash circulating outside Nigeria’s banking system surged to an unprecedented N4.2 trillion in October 2024, a sharp rise from N792 billion in January 2023. This growth reflects the ineffectiveness of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) policies aimed at curbing excess liquidity. Currency in circulation also climbed to N4.5 trillion during the same period, underscoring the increasing reliance on cash outside formal financial channels.

Nigerians’ preference for cash transactions is partly fueled by persistent challenges in accessing money through Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). Many ATMs remain out of service or plagued by long queues, forcing individuals to depend on Point-of-Sale (POS) operators for withdrawals. However, this alternative often comes at a steep price, with fees ranging from 5% to 10% per transaction.

Despite the CBN’s hawkish monetary stance, including frequent increases in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), the demand for physical cash remains unabated. This trend raises questions about the effectiveness of current policies and the need for innovative approaches to address the liquidity crisis and restore confidence in Nigeria’s banking system.