|By Adejumo Adekunle-
Diaspora BVN enrolment now costs $50 for remote processing
CBN says local BVN registration remains free for Nigerians at home
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has debunked claims that it introduced hidden charges in the recently launched Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) platform, assuring Nigerians that no such fees exist.
In a statement issued by the Bank’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Mrs Hakama Sidi Ali, the apex bank maintained that BVN enrolment for Nigerians living within the country remains entirely free. She clarified that the $50 associated with the NRBVN platform is not a fee for obtaining a BVN but a recoverable processing charge.
“The $50 fee covers secure identity authentication, data handling, and the technology infrastructure required to support biometric enrolment for Nigerians in the diaspora,” Sidi Ali explained. “Previously, Nigerians abroad paid $200. This new system provides a cost-effective and efficient alternative for remote verification and is not a payment for the BVN itself.”
Sidi Ali described as misleading and inaccurate the social media claims suggesting the imposition of excessive or new charges. She advised the public to ignore such rumours and rely only on verified information from the CBN and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).
According to her, the NRBVN initiative is a voluntary, secure, and convenient service designed to eliminate the need for Nigerians abroad to travel home just to enrol for a BVN.
“The NRBVN platform is more than a one-time solution. It is a key pillar in our broader digital transformation strategy, which aims to expand and improve access to financial services for Nigerians around the world,” she stated.
The CBN noted that the platform, launched in partnership with NIBSS, represents a major stride in Nigeria’s efforts to modernise digital identity management. With the NRBVN, Nigerians overseas can now register for a BVN remotely, saving both time and travel expenses while ensuring secure banking access.
Sidi Ali urged Nigerians to verify all updates about the NRBVN through the official communication channels of the CBN and NIBSS.
