The Association of Professional Women Bankers (APWB) has urged Nigerians to adopt safer digital habits and verify all financial transactions through their banks as a practical way to curb rising end-of-year fraud.

Rafiat Onitiri, the chairperson of the association, gave the advice in an interview with journalists on Sunday in Lagos, warning that fraudsters typically intensify activities during the festive period, exploiting online platforms and unsuspecting citizens.

She advised Nigerians to exercise heightened caution when engaging with social media messages, online adverts, and unsolicited incentives, noting that many scams rely on ignorance and haste.

“At this critical time of the year, people need to be extraordinarily cautious. Scammers are everywhere, especially on social media and online platforms.

“We should avoid reposted messages and resist the urge to click on suspicious links, as a single mistake can be disastrous,” she said.

Ms Onitiri said banks and other financial institutions had sustained public awareness campaigns to protect customers, urging individuals to always confirm suspicious messages directly with their banks.

“Do not respond to fictitious calls. Do not click on suspicious links, and never disclose your BVN or sensitive banking details to anyone,” she said.

According to her, while financial institutions continue to upgrade technology to stay ahead of fraudsters, individuals also have a responsibility to remain vigilant.

“Scammers are often a step ahead, so customers must be alert. When in doubt, reach out to your bank or your account officer for clarification,” she added.

Ms Onitiri, the 10th chairperson of APWB, the female arm of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), outlined her leadership agenda, promising inclusive policies that ensure no female banker is left behind.

She said APWB would strengthen partnerships with CIBN, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to promote capacity building, empowerment, and professional networking, leveraging technology to enhance productivity and contribute to economic growth.

The APWB chairperson also announced plans for expanded corporate social responsibility initiatives across Lagos and other parts of the country to deepen the association’s impact within the industry.

“Our 2026 target includes a special pet project for vulnerable girls.

“We are also supporting initiatives such as the ‘Catch Them Young’ programme for students interested in careers in the financial sector, alongside structured career counselling,” she noted.

Ms Onitiri expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic outlook in 2026, citing improving macroeconomic indicators and recent remarks by the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, at the 60th anniversary of CIBN.

She stated that the country made notable progress in 2025, achieving improved economic stability compared to the previous year.

“So much has been achieved this year. We cannot compare last year with this year, and even inflation has shown signs of easing,” she said. 

(NAN)