On the 16th of February, 2023, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, addressed the nation regarding the challenges of the currency swap and the state of the nation. One of the key points in the address was the extension of the use of the old ₦200 note until April 10th.
The President began by acknowledging the challenges the country has faced with the implementation of the currency swap policy. He noted that there had been some teething problems with the introduction of the new currency, particularly in the use of the new ₦200 note, which had caused some confusion and inconvenience for Nigerians.
To alleviate these challenges, the President announced that the use of the old ₦200 note would be extended until April 10th, 2023. This decision was made in response to feedback from Nigerians who had expressed concerns about the transition to the new currency.
The President emphasized that the extension was only temporary and that the new currency would eventually become the only legal tender in the country. He urged Nigerians to take advantage of the extended deadline to exchange their old notes for the new currency, and to familiarize themselves with the new denominations.
The President also used the opportunity to address the state of the nation, highlighting the progress that had been made in various sectors of the economy. He noted that the government was committed to improving the country’s infrastructure, including power, transportation, and housing.
During the address, he also urged Nigerians to participate in the upcoming general elections.
The President called on all citizens to exercise their right to vote without fear, as security would be provided and their votes would count. He emphasized the importance of peaceful and orderly elections, and urged all Nigerians to eschew violence and avoid actions that could disrupt the electoral process.