The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling illicit financial flows and terrorism financing through a sensitisation programme on Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT), held at its Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
The programme, which took place on Monday, May 4, 2026, was part of the Service’s first-quarter operational review and training session for officers of the AML/CFT Unit. It focused on enhancing operational capacity, promoting ethical standards, and strengthening inter-agency collaboration.
Speaking at the event, the Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Headquarters, Muhammad Shuaibu, said the initiative underscores the increasing importance of AML/CFT operations within both the Service and Nigeria’s broader financial and security architecture. He noted that the Unit’s impact now goes beyond seaports, airports, and border stations, describing it as a critical component in safeguarding the nation’s financial system.
Shuaibu also highlighted improvements in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, stating that Nigerian-issued bank cards are now globally functional, enabling seamless international transactions with automatic currency conversion. He described the development as a significant milestone for the country.
He further encouraged officers to view postings to the AML/CFT Unit as opportunities for professional growth rather than punitive assignments, while also referencing ongoing collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to align operations with international best practices.
Also speaking, the Acting Provost Marshal, Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Saulawa Sunusi, stressed the importance of integrity, discipline, and professionalism in the discharge of duties. He urged officers to uphold ethical conduct and demonstrate leadership by example while maintaining punctuality and fairness.
Sunusi emphasised the need for effective collaboration and conflict resolution within the Service, noting that internal synergy is vital for operational success.
Participants at the programme were advised to remain vigilant, maintain high morale, and perform their duties without bias. They were also cautioned against the unauthorised sharing of sensitive information and urged to adhere strictly to official communication protocols.
The session featured a lecture by Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Faisal Abubakar, on service correspondence, highlighting its importance in effective official communication.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of AML/CFT, Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Mas’ud Salihu, drew attention to the evolving nature of financial crimes, noting a growing shift towards digital and virtual platforms. He said ongoing efforts are focused on strengthening enforcement mechanisms, identifying operational gaps, and improving communication between field officers and management.
Salihu emphasised that continuous sensitisation remains key to combating financial crimes and urged officers to stay proactive in identifying and addressing emerging threats.
He commended participants for their active engagement and expressed appreciation to the Service’s management for its sustained support in strengthening the AML/CFT framework.
