CBN Complaint Email – How to Contact the Central Bank of Nigeria for Issues
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CBN Complaint Email |
If you have a banking issue in Nigeria that you cannot resolve directly with your bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) can help. Many Nigerians do not know that they can send their complaints directly to the CBN via email, especially when banks delay or refuse to address certain problems.
In this guide, you will learn the official CBN complaint email, how to write an effective complaint letter, and the steps to ensure your issue gets attention.
Why You May Need the CBN Complaint Email
The Central Bank of Nigeria is the main financial regulator in the country. One of its duties is to protect bank customers from unfair treatment by commercial banks, microfinance banks, and other financial institutions.
Some common reasons you may need the CBN complaint email include:
- Failed Transactions – ATM, POS, or mobile app transactions where your money is deducted but the recipient does not get paid.
- Unauthorized Deductions – Bank charges or debits without explanation.
- Loan Disputes – Wrong loan repayment deductions or harassment from loan recovery agents.
- Account Restrictions – Account blocked or frozen without valid reasons.
- Fraud and Scam Cases – Reporting fraudulent activities to protect your account.
- Delayed Reversal of Funds – Refunds that take too long to process.
Official CBN Complaint Email Address
The official CBN complaint email is:
This email is managed by the CBN Consumer Protection Department, which handles customer-related complaints against financial institutions.
Alternative Ways to Contact CBN for Complaints
Apart from email, you can reach the CBN through other channels:
- Phone (CBN Contact Centre): +234 700 225 5226
- CBN Website Contact Form: https://www.cbn.gov.ng/Contact/
- Social Media:
- Visit a CBN Branch: There are CBN offices in Abuja, Lagos, and other state capitals.
Steps to Send a Complaint Email to CBN
If you want your email complaint to the CBN to be effective, follow these steps:
1. First Contact Your Bank
The CBN requires that you first report the issue to your bank. Only when the bank fails to resolve it within 14 working days should you escalate to the CBN.
2. Prepare Your Details
Gather the following information before writing:
- Full Name
- Bank Name
- Account Number
- Phone Number
- Date and Description of the Issue
- Amount Involved
- Any Supporting Documents (screenshots, receipts, emails)
3. Write a Clear Subject Line
For example:
- "Unresolved Failed POS Transaction – ₦15,000 – Access Bank"
- "Unauthorized Deduction – ₦3,500 – GTBank"
4. Explain the Issue Clearly
State what happened, when it happened, and the steps you have taken with your bank. Avoid unnecessary details — be straight to the point.
5. Attach Evidence
Include scanned receipts, transaction alerts, or screenshots as proof.
6. Send and Wait for a Response
Send the email to cbncontactcentre@cbn.gov.ng and wait for acknowledgment. Response times vary, but most cases are resolved within 2–4 weeks.
Sample CBN Complaint Email
Here’s an example you can use:
Subject: Unresolved Failed ATM Withdrawal – ₦20,000 – Zenith Bank
Body:
Dear CBN Consumer Protection Department,
I am writing to lodge a complaint against Zenith Bank regarding an unresolved failed ATM transaction.
- Name: John Okafor
- Account Number: 1234567890
- Bank: Zenith Bank Plc
- Phone: 08012345678
- Transaction Date: 5th August 2025
- Amount: ₦20,000
On the above date, I attempted to withdraw ₦20,000 from a Zenith Bank ATM in Ikeja, Lagos. My account was debited, but I did not receive the cash. I reported to the bank immediately and was told the issue would be resolved within 7 working days. It has now been 15 working days, and the reversal has not been made.
Attached are the transaction receipt and debit alert from my bank.
Kindly intervene to ensure my money is refunded.
Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
John Okafor
Tips for Getting Faster Resolution
- Keep it Professional: Avoid emotional or rude language.
- Follow Up: If you don’t get a reply after 7 days, send a reminder.
- Reference Your Complaint Number: If CBN gives you a case ID, include it in follow-ups.
- Be Specific: State exact dates, amounts, and events.
Conclusion
The CBN complaint email is a powerful tool for resolving banking issues when your bank fails to act. Always remember to try your bank first, document every step, and send a well-organized complaint to cbncontactcentre@cbn.gov.ng for the best results.
If you found this guide helpful, you can also read our article on CBN Consumer Protection Guidelines to understand your full rights as a bank customer in Nigeria.
