NOA warns Kwara residents over circulation of counterfeit ₦1000 notes

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has issued a warning to residents of Kwara State about the circulation of fake ₦1000 notes in the area.

In a statement released in Ilorin, the State Director of NOA, Abdulganiyu Dare, raised the alarm, citing confirmed intelligence reports of criminal syndicates distributing counterfeit currency bearing batch numbers 364232 and 898248.

Dare urged residents, particularly business owners and Point of Sale (POS) operators, to remain vigilant, especially during peak trading hours in major markets.

“These criminals target unsuspecting traders and POS operators, using fake notes to defraud them of their hard-earned money,” he said.

He noted that the counterfeit notes could be identified by blurred portraits, unclear watermarks, and irregular security features, and advised the public to carefully inspect all banknotes during transactions.

“The NOA Kwara Directorate is actively sensitising the public on how to detect fake currency and the importance of verifying money during commercial dealings,” Dare added.

Describing the act as both unpatriotic and harmful to the national economy, he assured that the agency is working closely with security agencies to track down and prosecute those responsible.

He further encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity or individuals to the relevant authorities promptly.

“By working together, we can safeguard our financial systems and ensure a more secure commercial environment for all in Kwara State,” Dare said.