The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers Committee have directed banks planning to lay off some workers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic to halt such plans.
The CBN Spokesman, Isaac Okorafor who made this known in a statement on Sunday, said the decision was taken at a meeting of the Bankers’ Committee on Saturday.
The statement read: “A special meeting of the Bankers’ Committee was convened on May 2, 2020, to further review the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Nigerian. The Committee particularly deliberated on the issue of the operating costs of banks in view of the disruptions emanating from the global economic difficulties and decided on many issues.
“In order to help minimize and mitigate the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on families and livelihoods, no bank in Nigeria shall retrench or lay-off any staff of any cadre (including full-time and part-time).
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“To give effect to the above measure, the express approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria shall be required in the event that it becomes absolutely necessary to lay-off any such staff.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria solicits the support of all in our collective effort to weather through the economic challenges occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Reports of banks planning to lay off staff have been making the rounds in the media.
On Saturday, the Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, Herbert Nwige was quoted as saying some contracts staff such as tea girls, and cleaners, among other would be laid off.
Other banks have also been reported to be harboring plans to sack workers.
