GIABA Calls on Media to Intensify Fight Against Financial Crimes

The Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa has urged journalists to step up efforts in combating money laundering and terrorism financing across the region.
The Director-General of Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa, Edwin W. Harris Jr, represented by the agency’s Information Manager, Timothy Malaye, says Nigeria is implementing sustainable reforms to prevent a relapse into the grey list. He explains that the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to enhance compliance frameworks and address identified gaps.
He made the remarks during a media outreach programme in Abuja, stressing that the media plays a crucial role in exposing financial crimes and sensitising the public.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, Hafsat Bakari, called for stronger partnership with journalists, noting that responsible reporting can promote transparency and strengthen the fight against illicit financial flows.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Musa Adamu Aliyu, described financial crimes as a major threat to national stability and urged the media to take the lead in advancing accountability.
Stakeholders maintain that a coordinated multi-agency and media-driven approach remains essential to effectively tackling financial crimes across the region.