WED FEB 26 2025-theGBJournal| The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified efforts to tackle money laundering at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by bringing together key government agencies in a high-level stakeholders’ meeting.
The meeting, chaired by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Olumide Adebisi, on Friday, 21 February 2025, aimed at developing a coordinated approach to mitigate illicit financial flows through the nation’s airports.
Speaking shortly after the meeting, Comptroller Adebisi expressed concerns over lapses in enforcing anti-money laundering regulations, particularly passengers’ lack of proper declaration.
He noted that many inbound travellers at the airport do not receive the mandatory currency declaration forms, making it difficult to track financial movements in and out of the country.
He said, “My command covers Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, one of the country’s most significant border stations used by diplomats, multinational organisations, and international agencies. The image we project here directly impacts Nigeria’s financial standing.” Comptroller Adebisi stated.
To address this, the FCT Customs Command engaged with agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and other relevant bodies working at the airport.
The Customs Area Controller, however, emphasised that inter-agency collaboration and intelligence sharing are crucial in addressing financial crimes.
“If each agency operates in isolation, we will achieve little, but by working together and exchanging intelligence, we will strengthen Nigeria’s financial system. We have seen noticeable improvements since we began this sensitisation programme two weeks ago. I have received feedback from my headquarters and partner agencies confirming that the situation is improving.” He noted.
He assured that all efforts are being made to ensure Nigeria attains a positive rating, restore access to global financial services, and ensure the seamless use of Nigerian ATM cards abroad.
He noted that as part of the ongoing reforms, the FCT Customs Command is working towards making the airport more customer-friendly, ensuring that international travellers experience seamless border processes.
Comptroller Adebisi also disclosed plans to establish a unified digital platform for all stakeholders, including banks, regulatory agencies, and Customs, to facilitate seamless information sharing and intelligence gathering.
“We are committed to ensuring efficiency at the airport, and the feedback so far has been positive. We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders to strengthen our enforcement mechanisms and uphold Nigeria’s financial integrity.” He affirmed.
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