The Central Bank of Nigeria CBN has urged Nigerians, particularly traders, to handle the naira with care, pride and dignity to extend its lifespan and reduce the cost of replacing soiled and mutilated notes.

Dr Adedeji Adetona, Director, Currency Operations and Branch Management, gave the advice on Monday in Kano during a roadshow and public awareness campaign on proper handling of the naira at Galadima Market.

Represented by Ibrahim Yahya, Deputy Director, Currency Operations Department, Adetona said the campaign was aimed at taking the message of responsible currency handling directly to people who frequently engage in cash transactions.

He described the naira as a symbol of Nigeria’s sovereignty and national pride, stressing the need for Nigerians to handle it carefully.

According to him, the CBN and the Federal Government spend substantial resources replacing notes that become dirty, soiled, spoiled or mutilated.

He said proper handling of the currency would extend its lifespan and reduce the resources required to replace damaged notes.

Adetona said the sensitisation campaign began at Galadima Market and would be extended to other markets across Kano State.

He identified markets as important points for the campaign because of their high volume of cash transactions, noting that traders frequently receive and accumulate cash before depositing it in banks.

The director urged traders to see themselves as key stakeholders in efforts to preserve the quality of the national currency.

He said the CBN would continue engaging relevant stakeholders and members of the public to raise awareness about responsible naira handling.

Earlier, Shu’aibu Suleiman, Chairman of Galadima Market Traders Association, pledged the market leadership’s cooperation with the CBN in sensitising traders, particularly small-scale sellers, on proper handling of naira notes.

He welcomed the campaign, saying continuous public awareness was necessary to encourage responsible handling of the currency.

The CBN team also visited Sabon Gari Market, Abattoir, Yankaba Market, Tarauni Market, ‘Yan Lemo and Dawanau International Grains Market as part of the sensitisation exercise.

The CBN’s existing guidance advises the public to keep banknotes clean and flat, avoid folding, crumpling, stapling, writing on or spraying them, and use wallets, pouches or envelopes where possible.