Nigeria has received the prestigious UNODC–World Bank–Egmont Group Stolen Asset Recovery (StAR) Initiative Award at the 32nd Egmont Group Plenary of Heads of Financial Intelligence Units held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The award recognises the successful collaboration between the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in a case that showcased the effective use of timely financial intelligence, inter-agency cooperation and international collaboration to support investigations, recover assets and dismantle illicit financial networks.
Reacting to the honour, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, described the recognition as a proud moment for Nigeria and a strong endorsement of the country’s financial intelligence framework.
She also commended the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, and officers of the Commission for their professionalism and commitment to collaboration, noting that the award reflects Nigeria’s collective efforts in combating money laundering, terrorism financing and other serious financial crimes.
According to the NFIU, the international recognition further strengthens Nigeria’s reputation as a trusted partner in the global fight against illicit financial flows and highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led investigations in achieving tangible law enforcement outcomes.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships, promoting innovation and safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system as financial crimes become increasingly sophisticated and transnational.
