Nigeria’s Central Bank Orders Banks to Close Accounts of All Crypto Users

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has ordered all banks to close any accounts transacting with cryptocurrencies.

• The CBN said it was reminding regulated banking institutions that "dealing in cryptocurrencies or facilitating payments for cryptocurrency exchanges is prohibited."
• As such, all banks should "identify persons and/or entities" transacting with cryptocurrency or operating crypto exchanges on their platforms and "ensure that such accounts are closed immediately."
• Any breaches of the order would face "severe regulatory sanctions," the order states.
• The CBN letter is signed by Bello Hassan, Director of Banking Supervision, and dated Feb. 5.

Read more: Nigeria’s Central Bank Again Warns on Crypto Investments