The quality of the old notes has customers and bank workers complaining. The old naira notes reintroduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria are of bad quality. Also, it is noted that the new notes are gradually disappearing.
Recently, bank tellers and workers in the bulk room have voiced their apprehension. Since they are the ones in charge of the cash, there is a fear that the dirty and mutilated notes could spread diseases. During an interview with a bank worker, she noted that handling the dirty bills was a source of concern.
Further, the notes available are moldy and dirty. Most of them smell bad, and workers need to use nose masks to prevent the odour. It is possible that the old cash available will make workers sick. The smell is bad and causes coughing. Also, most banks now keep hand sanitizers for use.
Meanwhile, customers can’t reject the bills dispensed because cash is scarce. However, there are serious complaints about the condition of the naira notes.
In some parts of Lagos, customers have been unable to get money. Banks still complain of limited cash supplies. Therefore, the money can’t get to everyone. Most times, before noon, the cash is exhausted.
Finally, it seems the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Plc, which is responsible for the printing of the naira, appeared to lack the capacity to meet the demand for the new notes. This is the reason why there are no new naira bills.