20 NGN #389

Front

Murtala Ramat Mohammed (1938–1976), Nigerian military general and Head of State who led the bloodless coup of July 1975. During his brief tenure (July 1975 – February 1976), Mohammed initiated major reforms including the beginning of Nigeria's capital move to Abuja, anti-corruption purges in the civil service, and decisive foreign policy actions supporting African liberation movements. He was assassinated in an attempted coup on 13 February 1976 and is revered as a national hero. The front also displays the Nigerian coat of arms with its black shield, silver wavy bands representing the Niger and Benue rivers, flanked by two white horses, topped by an eagle, and the motto 'Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress' on the scroll below.

Back

Murtala Ramat Mohammed in military dress uniform at left, with the Nigerian coat of arms prominently displayed at right. The coat of arms features a black shield with a silver pall (Y-shaped band), representing the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, supported by two white horses symbolizing dignity, flanked by red hibiscus flowers (the national flower), topped by an eagle representing strength, on a green and white wreath representing the fertile land. The serial number and 2024 date are clearly visible, indicating this is from the new polymer series introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2024 to replace the older paper currency and enhance security features.

History

This is part of Nigeria's polymer banknote series introduced in 2024 by the Central Bank of Nigeria under Governor Olayemi Michael Cardoso. The redesign follows Nigeria's 2023 currency redesign policy and subsequent introduction of polymer substrates to combat counterfeiting and improve durability. The 20 Naira denomination has featured Murtala Mohammed since the 1984 design series, maintaining continuity with Nigeria's tradition of honouring its military leaders and founding fathers. The polymer series incorporates advanced security features including holograms, see-through registers, and optically variable ink. The 2024 date printed on this note confirms it as a current-issue specimen from the initial polymer print run. Nigeria transitioned to polymer for improved circulation life in its tropical climate and to address widespread counterfeiting of paper notes.