The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has urged stakeholders across West Africa to adopt a unified and proactive approach in tackling money laundering and terrorism financing.
He made this call during a media outreach programme organised by the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa, where he expressed concern over the growing impact of financial crimes on the region’s economy, institutional credibility, and public safety.
Fagbemi noted that the evolving and cross-border nature of these crimes requires stronger collaboration among governments, agencies, and institutions. He highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems through reforms, partnerships, and improved coordination among agencies.
He stressed that beyond legal frameworks, public awareness remains key in combating financial crimes, adding that informed citizens can help expose illegal activities and promote transparency.
Also speaking at the event, GIABA’s Director-General, Edwin W. Harris Jr, called on the media to remain independent and committed to uncovering financial crimes. He emphasized that journalists play a vital role in educating the public and investigating illicit financial activities.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, highlighted how technology has made money laundering more sophisticated, enabling criminals to move funds discreetly and support organised crime, corruption, and extremism.
She explained that financial crimes are no longer abstract issues but real threats affecting national stability, stressing the importance of responsible journalism in simplifying complex topics for public understanding.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Musa Adamu Aliyu, described money laundering and terrorism financing as serious threats to economic systems, governance, and national security.
He warned that advancements in technology, including the internet and artificial intelligence, have enabled criminals to operate more efficiently across borders. However, he noted that these same technologies can be leveraged by authorities to detect and prevent financial crimes.
Participants at the programme agreed that stronger cooperation among governments, media, and institutions is essential to curb illicit financial activities and protect the region’s stability.
