Amid the ongoing hunger protests, some banks have initiated efforts to attract customers towards utilizing their digital platforms.
NewsNow noticed these actions on the banks’ social media pages and through emails sent to clients during the nationwide protest.
FirstBank, in an email to its customers, emphasized the availability of alternative channels for seamless transactions at all touchpoints. The message assured customers of continuous support for their financial activities through round-the-clock access to various digital channels.
United Bank for Africa, through its Instagram page, highlighted the convenience of managing finances on-the-go using their digital banking platforms, ensuring hassle-free transactions anytime and anywhere.
Similarly, FSDH Merchant Bank, on its Instagram page, confirmed the full functionality of their electronic channels to facilitate easy transactions for customers.
Despite the ongoing protests, none of the banks in the country announced closures, and several bank branches visited by NewsNow remained operational.
For instance, the Access Bank branch near First Gate in the Maza-maza area of Lagos was open for business with operational ATMs, while the nearby Fidelity Bank branch had its gates locked, albeit with security guards and a police presence.
At Zenith Bank, although the branch was closed, the ATMs were still accessible to the public.
Polaris Bank at Festac welcomed customers despite the prevailing situation.
Spokespersons from two commercial banks assured NewsNow that they would be open for business, albeit with limited services as they closely monitored the developments.
Apart from banks, shopping malls and markets, like the one at Cele Bus Stop, in the Festac area remained closed.
Notably, concerns about potential violence during the protests have been raised, along with the highlighted economic repercussions.
The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise warned about the protests leading to an estimated daily loss of N400bn, which could severely impact the country and its citizens.
Dr. Muda Yusuf, the Director/CEO of CPPE, emphasized the potential severe consequences of such significant economic losses and the risks posed to various sectors and lives of individuals and businesses.
The protests, organized by different groups in the country, aim to shed light on various economic challenges, including high inflation, production costs, unemployment, and widespread hunger.