The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), on Wednesday, said its offices will remain open for business during the period when state and federal government offices remain shut as part of measures to contain the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
In a statement by its management, the bank noted efforts by the Nigerian Government, including partial lockdown to check the spread of the virus in Nigeria.
It assured stakeholders and members of the Nigerian public that the decision to remain open during these trying times is in line with its mandate of ensuring monetary and price stability.
The apex bank said as a responsible public institution and regulator, it has triggered its business continuity plans to ensure that “operations remain largely undisrupted at this present time when social distancing has become key to checking further spread of the virus. We have also directed Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) and other financial institutions to do the same.
“The welfare and safety of our staff and their families, and indeed all Nigerians, remain a top priority to us. Consequently, with effect from Wednesday, March 25, 2020, till further notice, only essential staff of the CBN Head Office and the 37 Branches of the Bank will be expected to report for duty daily. In other words, our staff in non-critical roles have been directed to stay at home and work remotely, when their services are required.”
The apex bank assured that it has directed all staff to follow stipulated guidelines by the Federal Ministry of Health, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and other relevant health agencies of government to curb the possible spread of the virus in Nigeria.