The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reassured Nigerians that the standard ₦100 banknote remains legal tender and must continue to be accepted for all financial transactions across the country.
The clarification follows reports that some individuals, businesses, and organisations have refused to accept the standard ₦100 note due to uncertainty over its legal status after the introduction of the commemorative ₦100 banknote.
CBN Says Both ₦100 Notes Are Valid
In a press statement issued on July 8, 2026, the apex bank explained that both the standard ₦100 banknote and the commemorative ₦100 banknote remain valid legal tender in Nigeria.
According to the CBN, the commemorative ₦100 note, which was introduced to celebrate Nigeria’s centenary, was never intended to replace the existing standard ₦100 banknote.
The bank stressed that Nigerians are free to use either version of the ₦100 note for payments and transactions nationwide.
Warning Against Rejecting the Standard ₦100 Note
The CBN warned members of the public, financial institutions, businesses, and other economic agents against rejecting the standard ₦100 banknote.
According to the regulator, refusing to accept the note violates the provisions of the CBN Act and could weaken public confidence in Nigeria’s national currency.
The apex bank also stated that it would not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement actions against any individual or organisation found violating the law by rejecting the legally recognised banknote.
Commitment to Protecting the Naira
The Central Bank reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the integrity of the Nigerian naira by ensuring that all duly issued banknotes remain trusted and accepted across the country.
It noted that maintaining confidence in the nation’s currency is essential for promoting smooth financial transactions and supporting economic stability.
The CBN therefore urged Nigerians to continue accepting all banknotes officially issued by the Bank without discrimination.
Public Advised to Seek Clarification Through Official Channels
To avoid confusion or misinformation, the apex bank encouraged members of the public to obtain clarification only through its official communication channels whenever questions arise regarding the status of any Nigerian banknote.
The statement was signed by Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, Acting Director of Corporate Communications, who reiterated the bank’s position that the standard ₦100 note remains fully recognised as legal tender throughout Nigeria.
What This Means for Nigerians
The clarification means that Nigerians can confidently continue using both the standard ₦100 banknote and the commemorative ₦100 note for everyday transactions.
Businesses, traders, transport operators, banks, and all service providers are expected to accept both versions, as they remain valid legal tender under Nigerian law.
The announcement is expected to eliminate uncertainty among members of the public and ensure smoother cash transactions involving the ₦100 denomination across the country.