Nigeria wins global award for fighting financial crime

Nigeria has gained international praise for its efforts against financial crime. The country received the UNODC, World Bank, Egmont Group Stolen Asset Recovery (StAR) Initiative Award at the 32nd Egmont Group Plenary of Heads of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

This award is one of the top honors in the global financial intelligence field. It recognizes outstanding cases that show innovation, international teamwork, and real impact in fighting money laundering and other serious financial crimes.

Nigeria's winning case focused on the successful teamwork between the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The intelligence gathered by the NFIU was critical in supporting the EFCC's investigations, leading to asset recovery and the disruption of illegal financial networks.

Hafsat Bakari, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, reacted to the win, calling it a “proud moment for Nigeria and a powerful affirmation of the quality, professionalism and impact of our financial intelligence architecture.” She praised EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede and his team for their dedication to working together with other agencies.

Bakari also highlighted that the award shows Nigeria's rising influence in the global fight against money laundering. The Egmont Group includes over 186 FIUs from around the world. It is the main platform for secure sharing of intelligence and collaboration in operations.

Nigeria's recognition at this year's plenary shows that international partners have more confidence in the country's ability to gather useful intelligence and turn it into real enforcement actions. Observers believe the award confirms Nigeria's efforts to improve its financial system and positions it as an important player in the fight against illegal finance.

Bakari said the honor comes with both celebration and responsibility. “Financial crime is becoming increasingly complex, transnational and technology-driven. This award strengthens our resolve to continue investing in intelligence-led approaches and deepening cooperation with domestic and international partners,” she stated.

Nigeria's success at the Egmont Group plenary highlights its role as a leader in financial intelligence. It shows that effective teamwork can bring about results that matter on a global scale.

This recent win of the prestigious UNODC, World Bank, Egmont Group Stolen Asset Recovery (StAR) Initiative Award comes just months after Nigeria successfully left the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025. This marks a significant improvement in the country's global financial reputation. The award also highlights Nigeria's improved anti-money laundering framework and its growing status as a leader in financial intelligence.