Nigeria’s naira notes are treated differently across regions.

The naira, Nigeria’s vibrant and battle-worn currency, reflects the diverse and dynamic nation it serves. It’s not just a piece of paper exchanged for goods; it’s a survivor, carrying the scars of its journey across the country. The naira tells a different story from one region to the next, depending on where it finds itself.

In the North, the naira is a seasoned veteran. It’s been through it all—tattered, worn, and weathered by years of handling. It’s soaked in rain, scorched by the sun, and shoved into pockets that haven’t seen the inside of a washing machine in years. Yet, here, it’s accepted without question.

The people of the North, known for their warmth and hospitality, hold onto their naira no matter how rough it looks. A note in Sokoto might have survived a swim through a gutter, a tussle with a goat, and lost a few corners along the way. But no matter—the traders will welcome it. “Kudi kudi ne,” a northern merchant might say, laughing off its state. “Money is money.” As long as it can still buy a bowl of Fura or a plate of Denkeli, it’s good enough. And if a note is rejected in these parts, it must be beyond hope—like one that’s had Obafemi Awolowo mysteriously transplanted onto a ₦50 bill.

But travel to other regions, and the naira’s fortunes shift dramatically. In places like Kwara, the currency undergoes a level of scrutiny worthy of a detective at a crime scene. Every mark, every tear, and every stain is carefully examined. A slight rip? Rejected. A smudge? Unacceptable. And heaven forbid you try to pass off a naira note held together with sellotape—it might as well be counterfeit.

It’s as if the naira lives a double life. It’s a rugged hero in the North, embraced for its endurance despite its flaws. But in the South, it’s an outcast, judged for even the slightest imperfection. What drives this stark contrast in treatment?

If you ever find yourself with a naira note that’s seen better days, don’t fret. Hold onto it until you make your way north, where even the most battle-weary notes find a warm welcome. It’s not just about having money in Nigeria—it’s about having the right money in the right place.

Wherever you are, it’s wise to play by the local rules. In Sokoto, you can present whatever naira you have—no questions asked. Rejections do happen, but only when the note is well beyond repair. So, if your money’s turned down in Sokoto, you know it’s truly on its last legs.