Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The Bank Verification Number (BVN) system was introduced in Nigeria in 2014 as a means of uniquely identifying bank customers and reducing the incidence of fraud in the banking sector. This research paper explores the implications of the BVN system on the Nigerian economy and banking sector. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative analysis of expert opinions and quantitative analysis of banking data. Through interviews with banking professionals and regulators, the research uncovers that the BVN system has significantly improved the efficiency of banking operations in Nigeria. By providing a unique identifier for each customer, the BVN has streamlined account opening processes, reduced identity theft, and enhanced customer due diligence procedures. This has led to increased trust in the banking sector and improved financial inclusion. The BVN system has also had a positive impact on the Nigerian economy by curbing illicit financial activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing. With the ability to track financial transactions more effectively, regulatory bodies have been able to detect and prevent fraudulent activities, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the financial system. This has improved Nigeria's standing in the global financial community and boosted investor confidence in the country. Furthermore, the BVN system has facilitated the integration of various banking services, leading to the development of innovative financial products and services. By linking customers' accounts across different banks, the BVN has enabled seamless transactions and enhanced interoperability within the banking sector. This has promoted competition among financial institutions, resulting in better services and lower costs for consumers. Despite these positive outcomes, the research also highlights some challenges associated with the BVN system. Issues such as data privacy concerns, technological limitations, and the need for continuous updates pose ongoing challenges to the effective implementation of the BVN system. Addressing these challenges will be crucial in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the BVN system in Nigeria. In conclusion, the BVN system has had significant implications on the Nigerian economy and banking sector. While it has brought about several benefits such as improved efficiency, enhanced security, and increased financial inclusion, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of the BVN system. Continued efforts to strengthen the system and address emerging issues will be essential in harnessing the full benefits of the BVN for Nigeria's economy and banking sector.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

1.1   BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

The role of BVN aimed at curtailing hazards associated with social security and credit risk cannot be underestimated (Leland & David, 1977). In recent times, biometric technologies have been used to analyze human characteristics as an enhanced form of authentication for real-time security processes. In the face of increasing incidents of compromise on our conventional security systems (password and PIN), the need for greater security on access to sensitive or personal information in the Banking system becomes inevitable (Blass & Oved, 2003).

In the same vein, the extent to which violation in the credit policies and credit monitoring system weakens the financial intermediary system continue to attract empirical and theoretical debate on how well Bank Verification system would thwart those issues of default and scam.

In addressing existing challenges with identity management, the Central Bank of Nigeria, through the banker’s committee in collaboration with all Nigerian banks in February 14, 2014 launched a centralized biometric identification system tagged “Bank Verification Number (BVN)”.

The BVN gives each Bank customer a unique identity across the Nigerian Banking industry that can be used for easy identification and verification at Point of Banking operations (Evangelista et al, 2001). Biometrics refers to identification of an individual based on physiological or behavioural attributes- fingerprint, voice, signature, facial features etc.

BVN uses biometric technology to register customers in the financial system. It records these physical features which are unique to individuals – fingerprints and the face. The record would be used to identify the person afterwards (Diamond, 1991). Once a person’s biometrics have been recorded, and BVN issued the account would be accessed through BVN. The major objectives of the initiative are to protect bank customers, reduce fraud and strengthen the Nigerian banking system.

Biometric enrolment is helpful to people who cannot read and write. Their finger prints and pictures would serve the same purpose as signatures (Claudio, 2002). Multiple account holders would be covered with a single registration in any of the banks where they have accounts. BVN will help the banking system reduce situations where loan defaulters, for instance, move from one bank to the other and the banks extend new credits to them, without knowing their history. Banks would be able to track transactions across all banks in Nigeria with more ease. As CBN implements the BVN initiative, it has to ensure the security of the data, from rogue bankers and also importantly from damage, as has been the experience with other sectors that engaged in biometric enrolments. It should also create measures to punish banks that might exploit the information they have to blackmail customers with whom they have disagreements.

Customers Bank Accounts are protected from unauthorized access with the use of BVN. Through an enhanced biometric real-time security system, the danger of unauthorized access to customer’s bank account is brought under check. The BVN is encompassing in detecting fraud of whatever type, whether through unauthorized access or through illegally authorized forms, and any other forms of fraud that’s against the rule of law and social justice (De Meza & David, 2000).

It will be of great benefit to Nigerian economy as she undertakes a means to effective transaction delivery through the BVN irrespective of diversities in opinions, critics and shortcomings that may ensue in actualization of this project. With BVN, Customers who borrow from one bank and default would not go to another bank to borrow without being tracked due to a unified credit performance system as Credit Bureau and lenders would be able to effect ‘’Know Your Customer (KYC)’’ policy by the CBN and fraudulent activities would be curtailed and banking activities would be monitored appropriately.

1.2   STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

BVN is a great initiative that would reduce illegal banking transactions and improve national financial intelligence gathering which will boost the economy. The interests of account holders should be accorded importance so that their increased confidence in the banking system would improve the financial standing of banks. Customers will use banks more when they know that their transactions are safe. BVN offers vast opportunities to protect customers, banks and the entire financial system. However, the researcher is examining the implication of Bank verification number BVN on the Nigerian economy and banking sector.

1.3   OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The following are the objectives of this study:

1. To examine the implication of Bank Verification Number BVN on the Nigerian economy.
2. To examine the implication of Bank Verification Number BVN on the Nigerian banking sector.
3. To determine the threats and weaknesses of the implementation of Bank Verification Number BVN.

1.4   RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What is the implication of Bank Verification Number BVN on the Nigerian economy?
2. What is the implication of Bank Verification Number BVN on the Nigerian banking sector?
3. What are the threats and weaknesses of the implementation of Bank Verification Number BVN?

1.5   HYPOTHESIS

HO: There is no significant relationship between Bank Verification Number and the Nigerian economy

HA: There is significant relationship between Bank Verification Number and the Nigerian economy

1.6   SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The following are the significance of this study:

1. The outcome of this study will educate the general public on the benefits and implications of Bank Verification Number and it effect on the Nigerian economy and the banking sector.
2. This research will be a contribution to the body of literature in the area of the effect of personality trait on student’s academic performance, thereby constituting the empirical literature for future research in the subject area.

1.7   SCOPE/LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

This study will cover the issues of Bank Verification Number and its implication on the Nigerian economy and the banking sector

LIMITATION OF STUDY

Financial constraint– Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).

Time constraint– The researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. This consequently will cut down on the time devoted for the research work