Standard, commemorative ₦100 notes remain legal tender, says CBN

The Central Bank of Nigeria has said that both the standard and commemorative ₦100 banknotes remain legal tender in the country and must be accepted for all transactions nationwide.

The apex bank gave the clarification in a statement issued on July 8, 2026, following reports that some members of the public, businesses and other stakeholders were rejecting the standard ₦100 note over doubts about its validity.

The statement, signed by the Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, said the commemorative ₦100 banknote introduced to mark Nigeria’s centenary did not replace the existing standard ₦100 banknote.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the CBN hereby reiterates that both the commemorative ₦100 banknote and the standard ₦100 banknote remain legal tender in Nigeria and must be accepted for all transactions nationwide,” the statement read.

The CBN warned individuals, businesses, financial institutions and other economic agents against rejecting the standard ₦100 banknote, describing such rejection as a violation of the provisions of the CBN Act.

According to the bank, refusal to accept the legally issued banknote also undermines public confidence in the national currency.

The CBN said it would not hesitate to apply appropriate enforcement measures against any person or organisation found to be in breach.

It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the naira, ensuring confidence in all duly issued banknotes and promoting smooth currency circulation across the country.

The apex bank urged members of the public to accept and transact with all banknotes legally issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

It also advised members of the public seeking further clarification to contact the bank through its official communication channels.