CBN has debunked viral $46bn approval letter and warned Nigerians against fake documents.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has dismissed as fake a viral document claiming that it approved the release of $46 billion to a development organisation for national empowerment projects.
The apex bank made the clarification in a statement posted on its official X handle, warning members of the public against relying on the purported letter.
The forged document, dated August 13, 2026, claimed that CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, had approved the release of $46 billion to Atufeg Empowerment and Development Center and one Amb. Engr. Atunde Femi Gabriel.
According to the fake letter, the funds were allegedly approved for the implementation of “national empowerment and developmental projects.”
The document further claimed that the apex bank had authorised the immediate transfer of the funds to the beneficiaries.
“The CBN confirms full endorsement and authorises the immediate transfer of these funds to the beneficiary’s designated account,” the forged document stated.
However, the CBN categorically denied the authenticity of the letter, describing it as fabricated and misleading.
“This content is fake. Let the public be guided,” the bank stated in its post on X.
To reinforce its position, the CBN shared an image of the purported document prominently marked “Fake Content.”
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The apex bank reiterated that members of the public should rely solely on its official communication channels for information relating to its policies, programmes and activities.
The development comes amid growing concerns over fraudulent documents and social media publications falsely attributed to major institutions and companies in Nigeria.
Several organisations have in recent months issued public disclaimers after unauthorised individuals circulated forged notices capable of misleading customers and disrupting business operations.
Regulators and financial institutions have repeatedly warned that such misinformation could erode public confidence, trigger panic and expose unsuspecting members of the public to financial risks.
The CBN’s latest clarification comes days after fintech company OPay denied a viral notice claiming that it would suspend transactions and account-related services from September 1, 2026.
The false publication, which circulated widely on social media, urged customers to withdraw their funds ahead of an alleged shutdown, causing concern among users.
Following the publication, OPay petitioned security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, requesting an investigation into those responsible for originating and circulating the false information.
Speaking at a press conference, OPay’s Chief Legal Counsel, Akinfolabi Rokosu, said the company took the matter seriously because the rumour had the potential to undermine confidence in Nigeria’s financial system and cause financial losses.
He maintained that OPay remained fully operational and warned that those behind the fake publication would be held accountable.
Following OPay’s petition, the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) arrested a 27-year-old woman, Hafsat Abubakar, over her alleged role in creating and disseminating the forged document.
The suspect was arrested on September 4, 2026, after investigators reportedly traced the viral publication using digital forensic tools.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Anietie Iniedu, the case highlights the growing threat posed by digitally fabricated information capable of disrupting businesses, financial systems and public confidence.
The police said investigations are ongoing and advised members of the public to verify sensitive information through official channels before sharing or acting on it.
