Commercial banks in Nigeria have announced that they will shut down their branches early on Friday.
According to the banks, this is due to the Saturday, February 25th presidential and national assembly elections,
Customers have been sent notifications informing them of the early closure of services.
Most of the banks usually close at 4:00 PM.
However, due to tomorrow’s electoral events, the banks have advised their customers to use alternative banking solutions such as USSD, mobile apps, etc.
A copy of the messages sent to First Bank customers read: “Kindly be informed that our branches nationwide will close to customers earlier than usual on Friday, 24 February 2023, by 1:00 pm.”
Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTB) also admonished its customers to use its alternative channels for their banking needs during the elections.
GTBank’s notification to its customers via their emails, seen by our correspondent at Naija News, reads: “Dear Customer, Please be informed that our branches nationwide will close to customers earlier than usual on Friday, 24 February 2023.
“Kindly note the early closure time below: Lagos and Upcountry Branches – 12 pm.
“We encourage you to take advantage of our secure, convenient and always-on alternative channels for any of your banking needs.”
Access Bank also informed its customers that services would be suspended at the banking hall as early as 12 noon.
A notification sent to the bank’s customers on Thursday via their emails read: “Our branches will close early on Friday, February 24, 2023, at 12 noon. This is to allow for the timely departure of customers and staff to their respective locations in preparation for the 2023 general elections scheduled for Saturday, February 25, 2023.”
Also, Stanbic Bank, in an email addressed to customers, said, “Please be informed that our branches will close by 1 pm on Friday, 24 February 2023.
“Our customer contact centre will also not be available on Saturday, 25 February and Sunday, 26 February 2023, to attend to your calls and requests because of the election.”