The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disowned a document circulating online which falsely claims that its Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, approved a $46 billion developmental grant to a private organisation.
The forged document, dated August 13, 2026, reportedly alleges that the CBN governor approved the release of the funds to the Atufeg Empowerment and Development Center.
The apex bank described the document as fake and fraudulent, warning members of the public against relying on it or engaging with individuals or organisations promoting the purported grant.
The development comes amid growing circulation of fraudulent financial documents and online schemes that falsely use the names and identities of government institutions and senior public officials.
According to reports on the CBN’s clarification, the purported approval did not originate from the bank and no such $46 billion grant was authorised by Cardoso.
The fake document reportedly bears official-looking details designed to give it credibility, raising concerns over the increasing sophistication of fraudulent documents circulated through social media and other online platforms.
The CBN urged Nigerians to exercise caution and verify purported financial approvals, grants and investment opportunities through its official communication channels before taking any action.
The warning is particularly relevant to individuals and organisations seeking grants or financial support, as fraudsters often exploit such opportunities to obtain personal information, solicit payments or lure victims into financial scams.
The apex bank’s position effectively puts to rest the claim that it approved a $46 billion empowerment or development grant, with the purported approval document having no validity.
