CBN Declares Zuldal Microfinance Bank Illegal
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has disowned Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited, warning that the entity is operating illegally and without any form of regulatory approval.
In the detailed warning released on Thursday by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, the CBN referenced the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (BOFIA) 2020, noting that Section 2(1) of the law explicitly states that “no person shall carry on any banking business in Nigeria except it is a company duly incorporated in Nigeria and holds a valid banking licence issued by the CBN.”
The apex bank said its attention had been drawn to reports that the firm, which claims to operate branches in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano, presents itself as a CBN-licensed microfinance bank.
The CBN stressed that “The said Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited is not a licensed Microfinance Bank and has no authorisation from the Central Bank of Nigeria to operate or carry out any form of banking or microfinance business in Nigeria.”
The apex bank added that the institution’s claim of being licensed is false and should be disregarded by the public. It urged Nigerians to avoid dealing with the firm, stressing that engaging in transactions with unlicensed financial operators carries significant risks.
According to the statement, “the general public is therefore strongly advised to disregard any claims of licensing or approval by Zuldal Microfinance Bank Limited and to refrain from engaging in any financial transactions with the said entity, as such dealings are undertaken at the individual’s own risk.”
