CBN orders banks to stop cash payment of PTA, BTA; directs banks to use electronic channels

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will no longer allow cash for Business Travel Allowance (BTA) and Personal Travel Allowance (PTA).

CBN disclosed this on Thursday, in a circular titled ‘Allowable Channels For Payout Of Personal Travel Allowance (PTA) And Business Travel Allowance (BTA)’.
In the notice signed by Hassan Mahmud, its director of trade and exchange department, CBN said banks are to stop the payment in cash and adopt electronic transfers.

According to CBN, the new move is to ensure stability and promote transparency.

“Memorandum 8 of the Foreign Exchange manual and the circular with reference FMD/DIR/CIR/GEN/08/003 dated February 20, 2017, stipulate the eligibility criteria for accessing Personal and Business Travel, allowances (PTA/BTA),” CBN said.
“In line with the Bank’s commitment to ensure transparency and stability in the foreign exchange market and avoid foreign exchange malpractices, All Authorized Dealer Banks shall henceforth effect payout of PTA/BTA through electronic channels only, including debit or credit cards. For the avoidance of doubt, payment of PTA/BTA by cash is no longer permitted. Authorized Dealers and the general public are hereby to note and comply accordingly.”