Nigeria Customs Service pledges stronger anti-money laundering efforts

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has committed to intensifying its fight against money laundering, terrorism financing, and other illicit cross-border financial activities. This pledge comes as Nigeria prepares for its upcoming Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) mutual evaluation.

During a stocktaking meeting in Abuja, Deputy Comptroller-General Kikelomo Adeola emphasized the need to sustain the progress made following Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. Adeola noted that the service must identify existing gaps and maintain effective measures to prevent the country from being returned to the list.

Adeola also highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration, commending the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for its role in strengthening the national framework. She stressed that the Customs Service cannot address these financial crimes in isolation and requires sustained cooperation among relevant government institutions.