CBN Clarifies Status of Commemorative ₦100 Note Amid Public Confusion

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reassured Nigerians that the commemorative ₦100 banknote remains a legal tender and has not replaced the country's existing standard ₦100 note.

The clarification follows renewed public discussions and misconceptions over the status of the commemorative note, with some Nigerians questioning whether it had replaced the traditional ₦100 banknote or had ceased to be valid for transactions.

In its statement, the apex bank explained that the commemorative ₦100 note was introduced solely to mark Nigeria's centenary celebration in 2014, commemorating 100 years since the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates in 1914. The CBN stressed that the special note was issued as a commemorative currency and was never intended to replace the standard ₦100 note already in circulation.

According to the bank, both versions of the ₦100 note remain valid and can be used for all financial transactions across the country. Nigerians have therefore been advised to continue accepting both notes without hesitation, as they hold the same monetary value and legal status.

The commemorative ₦100 banknote was officially unveiled on December 19, 2014, making Nigeria the first country in Africa to issue a banknote featuring Quick Response (QR) code technology. The note also incorporated enhanced security features designed to improve authentication and reduce counterfeiting.

The CBN noted that commemorative banknotes are common in many countries and are often issued to celebrate significant national events or historical milestones while circulating alongside regular currency.

The bank urged members of the public to rely only on official information regarding Nigeria's currency and to disregard false claims capable of creating unnecessary confusion or disrupting commercial activities.

By reaffirming the legal status of both the commemorative and standard ₦100 notes, the CBN hopes to eliminate uncertainty and ensure confidence in the nation's currency.

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