The Nigerian Government in order to curb the spread the coronavirus pandemic announced a lockdown for the first time in March in certain states. This was done in order to ensure all citizens are safe in pursuance of the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). Taking this development into consideration and in furtherance of the Central Bank’s effort in ensuring an easy clearing and settlement activities, the Central Bank of Nigeria issued a circular suspending the clearing of cheques instruments in the Nigeria Clearing System until further notice. This circular took effect from 31 March 2020.
