By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigeria Customs Service has intensified efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing through a sensitisation programme for officers of its Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism Unit.
The programme, held at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja, formed part of the first-quarter operational review and training for officers of the unit.
In a statement issued after the session, the Service said the engagement focused on enhancing operational capacity, promoting ethical standards, and strengthening inter-agency collaboration.
Speaking during the programme, the Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Headquarters, Muhammad Shuaibu, said the initiative reflects the growing importance of AML/CFT operations within the Service and the country’s financial system.
Shuaibu stated that the impact of the unit extends beyond seaports, airports, and border stations, adding that its activities have become critical in protecting the nation’s financial system.
According to him, the unit’s achievements over the past year have strengthened Nigeria’s anti-money laundering framework.
He also highlighted improvements in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, noting that Nigerian-issued bank cards are now globally functional.
“This is a major milestone. Nigerians can now travel and use their cards anywhere in the world, with transactions reflecting the local currency. This is a significant achievement for the nation,” he said.
Shuaibu added that postings to the AML/CFT Unit should be seen as opportunities for career growth and professional development.
He also disclosed that the Service is collaborating with the World Customs Organization to align operations with international standards.
Also speaking, the Acting Provost Marshal, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Saulawa Sunusi, urged officers to maintain discipline, professionalism, and integrity in the discharge of their duties.
“Officers must remain disciplined, professional, and committed to ethical conduct. Integrity remains the foundation of everything we do,” Sunusi said.
He advised officers to continue building their capacity through training while promoting teamwork and professionalism.
The session also featured a lecture on service correspondence delivered by Deputy Comptroller of Customs Faisal Abubakar.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of AML/CFT, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Mas’ud Salihu, said financial crimes are increasingly moving into digital and virtual spaces.
Salihu noted that the Service is strengthening enforcement mechanisms and improving communication between field officers and management.
He urged officers to remain proactive in identifying emerging threats and blocking illicit financial activities.
The Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework.