The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has set off a wave of uncertainty among its staff with the sudden announcement of a head office decongestion plan affecting 1,533 employees.
The move, confirmed in a circular dated January 12, 2024, cites safety concerns and a desire to improve efficiency as the driving forces behind the significant workforce shift.
According to the CBN’s Human Resources Department, the move is aimed at optimising the use of existing bank facilities within Abuja and Lagos, as well as addressing understaffed branches.
The apex bank said there is an alarming discrepancy between the current occupancy of 4,233 and the building’s optimal capacity of 2,700.
The most immediate impact will be felt within the Banking Supervision Department, with approximately 80% of its staff relocated to Lagos.
“This is to notify all staff members at the CBN Head Office that we have initiated a decongestion action plan designed to optimise the operational environment of the Bank.
“This initiative aims to ensure compliance with building safety standards and enhance the efficient utilisation of our office space.
“This action is necessitated by several factors, including the need to align the Bank’s structure with its functions and objectives, redistribute skills to ensure a more even geographical spread of talent and comply with building regulations, as indicated by repeated warnings from the Facility Manager, and the findings and recommendations of the Committee on Decongestion of the CBN Head Office Building,” it stated.
However, the development has led to uncertainties among staff.
Reacting, a staff member who spoke under anonymity said, “The move is ill-planned. How does the management want those married to cope with the situation?”
Another source said, “I doubt the motive of the management. The decision has been made. Likely, the government is shifting attention to Lagos.”
