The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Musa Adamu Aliyu, has underscored the critical role of the media in combating money laundering and terrorist financing, describing it as an indispensable partner in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic integrity and democratic institutions.
Aliyu made the remarks at the National Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Media Outreach held in Abuja. The programme was organised by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in collaboration with the Intergovernmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa. His address was delivered by the ICPC Head of Media and Public Communications, J. Okor Odey.
He described money laundering and terrorist financing as among the most destabilising threats to national security and economic stability, noting that their impact erodes public trust, distorts markets, and diverts resources meant for development.
The ICPC chairman highlighted the growing complexity of financial crimes, driven by advancements in digital technology, social media, and artificial intelligence, which enable criminal networks to move illicit funds swiftly and anonymously across borders. He, however, commended the NFIU for deploying advanced analytics and real-time transaction monitoring systems to counter such threats.
Aliyu called on journalists to move beyond routine reporting and actively promote anti-corruption values and financial integrity through investigative journalism, public interest programming, and responsible reportage. He stressed that corruption and money laundering are deeply interconnected, requiring a whole-of-society response in which the media plays a strategic role.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, emphasised the shared responsibility between journalists and financial intelligence institutions in promoting transparency and accountability. She noted that both professions are united by a common objective of uncovering hidden financial networks and exposing illicit flows.
Similarly, the Director-General of GIABA, Edwin W. Harris Jr., represented by Timothy Melaye, described the media as a vital stakeholder in the regional fight against financial crimes. He explained that GIABA, a specialised institution of the Economic Community of West African States, is mandated to promote compliance with international AML/CFT standards, including those of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Harris urged journalists to deepen their understanding of AML/CFT issues and communicate them in clear and accessible language, noting that the initiative aims to foster a regional network of reporters dedicated to covering economic and financial crimes.
In his remarks, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented by Dili Ezughah, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling corruption and financial crimes. He highlighted the central role of the media in shaping public discourse and educating citizens on the risks associated with illicit financial activities.
He added that Nigeria has strengthened its financial systems through improved monitoring mechanisms, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and strategic partnerships targeting both domestic and transnational financial crimes. While acknowledging challenges such as the technical complexity of AML/CFT reporting and safety concerns, he called for sustained collaboration and capacity building for media practitioners.
Also, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, represented by Olubunmi Ikupolati, stressed the importance of public awareness in combating financial crimes. He noted that beyond legal frameworks, an informed citizenry is critical to identifying and reporting suspicious financial activities.
The outreach programme brought together media professionals, regulators, and key stakeholders, providing a platform to strengthen collaboration, enhance capacity, and deepen public understanding of AML/CFT issues in Nigeria. Participants expressed optimism that the engagement would catalyse more impactful reporting and reinforce a united front against financial crimes.
