The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) has pledged to disrupt the financial channels used by terrorists and other criminals in the country. The agency believes that cutting off these financial routes will diminish terrorists’ capacity to conduct further criminal activities.
Hafsat Bakari, Director-General of the NFIU, made this declaration on Tuesday in Abuja. “Nigeria has faced an acute threat of terrorism for over a decade, particularly from groups such as Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province, and other amorphous groups,” Bakari said. “These extremist organizations have destabilized communities, wasted innocent lives, and continue to pose a threat to national security.”
She emphasized, “Without the funds and finances that enable their activities, terrorists and terrorist organizations would not be able to carry out their heinous acts. Funds, supplies, and other material assistance are therefore central to terrorists’ ability to operate.”
Bakari proposed that analyzing transaction patterns, identifying suspicious activities, and tracing cross-border funds are key to uncovering terrorism sponsors. She added, “Financial investigations are pivotal. To keep track and disrupt them requires specialized skills, deep collaboration between agencies, and effective coordination with international partners.”
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
