Banks and other financial institutions across Nigeria are set to close their doors today, August 1, 2024, as a nationwide hunger strike begins. Although no official announcements were made by the banks regarding closures, employees confirmed they had been advised to stay home and monitor the situation.
A banker, speaking with The PUNCH, explained the cautionary measures: “During previous protests, banks were targeted. We want to avoid a repeat of such incidents, so we’ve been advised to wait and see how the situation develops.”
Another banker in Lagos added, “I’m not going to work tomorrow,” indicating a widespread decision among financial institutions to prioritize safety.
However, some employees noted they were only advised to be cautious during their commute rather than given direct instructions to stay home.
Leadway Pensure, a Pension Fund Administrator, informed its customers via email about their office closures for Thursday and Friday. The communication, titled ‘Business Continuity Amid Planned Protest,’ urged customers to use digital channels for transactions.
Meristem Securities Limited also notified its clients of a temporary closure of their offices in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Abuja due to the protest. They assured clients of ongoing monitoring and promised further updates based on developments.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Anthony Abakpa, President of the National Union of Banks, Insurance, and Financial Institutions Employees, stated, “Banks will monitor the national protest closely. The regulatory body has not given explicit approval to close any bank operations amid the protest. Banks cannot close shop without the Central Bank of Nigeria’s approval. We have advised our members to exercise extra caution and remain alert for their safety.”
As the hunger strike commences, financial institutions remain vigilant, prioritizing the safety of their employees and customers while ensuring continuity through digital channels.
