The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has called on the media to play a more strategic role in combating money laundering and terrorist financing, stressing its influence in shaping public perception and strengthening accountability.
Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, made the call at the National Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Media Outreach held in Abuja. The programme was organised by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in collaboration with the Intergovernmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).
Represented by the Head of Media and Public Communications, Mr. J. Okor Odey, Aliyu described the media as an indispensable partner in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic integrity and democratic institutions.
He warned that money laundering and terrorist financing remain major threats to national security and economic stability, noting that their impact continues to erode public trust, distort markets, and deprive citizens of critical development resources.
Aliyu also highlighted the growing complexity of financial crimes, driven by advancements in digital technology, social media, and artificial intelligence, which have enabled criminal networks to move illicit funds across borders with greater speed and anonymity.
He, however, commended the NFIU for deploying advanced analytics and real-time transaction monitoring systems to combat illicit financial flows.
“The media must go beyond information dissemination to intentionally promote anti-corruption ideals and financial integrity. Investigative journalism and responsible reporting are vital tools for exposing illicit financial activities,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hajia Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, emphasised the shared responsibility between journalists and financial intelligence institutions in promoting transparency and accountability.
“Journalists turn the light of truth on critical issues, while we trace financial flows to ensure that illicit networks do not operate in the shadows,” she said.
Also, the Director-General of GIABA, Mr. Edwin W. Harris Jr., represented by Mr. Timothy Melaye, stressed the importance of the media in the regional fight against financial crimes.
He urged journalists to deepen their understanding of AML/CFT issues and communicate them effectively to the public.
Similarly, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, represented by Dr. Dili Ezughah, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling corruption, describing the media as a powerful force in shaping national discourse.
He noted that Nigeria has strengthened its financial systems through improved monitoring, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and strategic partnerships to address both domestic and transnational financial crimes.
On his part, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, represented by Mr. Olubunmi Ikupolati, highlighted the importance of public awareness in tackling financial crimes.
“A well-informed citizenry is better equipped to identify and report suspicious activities,” he said.
The outreach brought together journalists, regulators, and key stakeholders to enhance collaboration, build capacity, and deepen public understanding of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts in Nigeria.
Participants expressed optimism that the initiative would lead to more impactful reporting and a stronger, united front against financial crimes.