By George Ozalla
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to combating illicit financial flows and terrorism financing through a sensitisation programme on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism held at the Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
The programme, held as part of the Service’s first quarter operational review meeting and training for officers of the AML/CFT Unit, focused on capacity building, ethical standards and strengthening collaboration among relevant agencies.
Speaking during the session, 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 Nigeria’s wider financial and security framework.
Shuaibu noted that the impact of the Unit now extends beyond seaports, airports and border stations, adding that its achievements in the past year have positioned it as a key component in protecting the nation’s financial system.
He also highlighted improvements within Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, noting that Nigerian-issued bank cards are now globally functional, enabling seamless international transactions with automatic currency conversion.
According to him, the development represents a major milestone for the country and demonstrates progress in Nigeria’s financial system.
The Customs chief further stated that postings to the AML/CFT Unit should be regarded as opportunities for career growth and professional development rather than punitive assignments. He also referenced the Service’s collaboration with the World Customs Organization aimed at aligning operations with global best practices.
Also speaking, the Acting Provost Marshal, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Saulawa Sunusi, stressed the importance of integrity, professionalism and discipline in the discharge of duties.
Sunusi urged officers to remain committed to ethical conduct, fairness and professionalism while continually improving their capacity through training and effective leadership.
He also underscored the need for stronger collaboration and conflict resolution within the Service, noting that internal synergy remains essential for operational success.
Participants at the programme were advised to remain vigilant, maintain high morale and avoid the unauthorised sharing of sensitive information, while adhering strictly to official communication protocols.
The session also featured a lecture on service correspondence delivered by Deputy Comptroller of Customs Faisal Abubakar, who guided officers on the importance and application of proper official communication.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of AML/CFT, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Mas’ud Salihu, said financial crimes are increasingly shifting into digital and virtual spaces, making continuous sensitisation and enforcement more critical.
Salihu explained that ongoing efforts are focused on strengthening enforcement mechanisms, identifying operational gaps and improving communication between field officers and management.
He commended participants for their engagement and appreciated the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for its continued support towards strengthening the AML/CFT framework within the Service.
