CBN debunks fake $46bn approval letter, warns public to verify information

CBN debunked a viral document claiming it approved the release of $46 billion to Atufeg Empowerment and Development Center and Ambassador Engineer Atunde Femi Gabriel for national empowerment projects. The forged letter, dated August 13 2026, alleged CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso had authorised immediate transfer of the funds. The apex bank responded on its official X handle, stating the content is fake and urging the public to rely only on its official communication channels.

This incident matters because fake financial notices can mislead citizens, trigger panic, erode trust in institutions and expose people to fraud. It follows a growing trend of forged corporate communications—just days earlier OPay denied a false notice about suspending services, which led to the arrest of a 27‑year‑old woman, Hafsat Abubakar, for creating and spreading the false information. Such scams can cause financial loss and destabilise confidence in the financial system.

What you should know: always verify shocking financial claims through the CBN website, verified social media accounts or direct contact with your bank before sharing or acting on them. Report suspicious documents to authorities. Will you double‑check any startling financial notice through official CBN or bank websites before acting or sharing it?

SOURCE: https://nairametrics.com/2026/09/11/cbn-disowns-fake-viral-46-billion-grant-approval-document/