CBN Announces Stricter Cash Withdrawal Rules Ahead of 2026: What Nigerians Must Know
As Nigeria gradually transitions toward a fully cash-lite economy , the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has unveiled a new set of cash-withdrawal policies that will officially take effect from January 1, 2026 . These fresh rules mark one of the most significant adjustments to Nigeria’s financial landscape in recent years, and they are designed to reduce the cost of cash handling, curb money-laundering, strengthen security, and encourage the use of digital payment platforms . For many individuals, small business owners, corporate organisations, and rural communities that rely heavily on cash transactions, these new withdrawal limits will have a noticeable impact. Here’s a full breakdown of what the new policy means, how it works, and why the CBN believes it is necessary. A New Withdrawal Structure for 2026 Under the new rules, the maximum cash individuals will be allowed to withdraw across all channels— ATM , POS , and over-the-counter (OTC) transactions—is ₦500,000 per week . For cor...