Uproar as CBN announces Abuja office decongestion affecting 1,533 staff

Growing concerns are arising among employees as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) initiates the decongestion of its Abuja head office, impacting 1,533 staff members. A circular dated January 12, 2024, from the Director of the Human Resources Department at CBN to all staff outlined that the move is prompted by safety considerations and the goal of enhancing efficiency.

The CBN explained that the action plan aims to optimize the use of premises belonging to other banks. The circular highlighted that the current occupancy level at the headquarters, which stands at 4,233, significantly surpasses the optimal capacity of 2,700 for the head office building. As a result, 1,533 staff members will be relocated to other CBN facilities in Abuja and Lagos, as well as understaffed branches.

Approximately 80% of the Banking Supervision Department’s CBN staff will be moved to Lagos, citing that the banks they supervise are predominantly based in Lagos. A small number of department staff will remain in Abuja.

The circular stated, “This is to notify all staff members at the CBN Head Office that we have initiated a decongestion action plan designed to optimize the operational environment of the Bank. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with building safety standards and enhance the efficient utilization of our office space.”

The reasons behind the move include aligning the bank’s structure with its functions, redistributing skills for a more even geographical spread, and complying with building regulations based on warnings from the Facility Manager and recommendations of the Committee on Decongestion of the CBN Head Office Building.

However, the decision has sparked uncertainty and criticism among staff members who view the move as poorly planned. Concerns were raised about the challenges faced by married individuals and suspicions about the management’s motives, with some speculating a government focus shift towards Lagos.