By Muhammad Mamman
President Bola Tinubu has expressed satisfaction with Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, describing it as a “major milestone” in the country’s drive for economic reform and global credibility.
The FATF, which sets global standards to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and proliferation funding, announced its decision at its plenary meeting in Paris on Friday, officially removing Nigeria from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring.
President Tinubu said the development reflects Nigeria’s strengthened commitment to financial transparency and institutional integrity.
He extended appreciation to key government officials — including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and the Ministers of Aviation, Budget and Economic Planning, Defence, Foreign Affairs, Solid Minerals, and the Minister of State for Finance — for their roles in meeting FATF’s requirements. He also commended the National Assembly, the Judiciary, and the National Security Adviser for their support.
Special praise was directed to Ms. Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and her team, for ensuring that Nigeria’s Action Plan was “fully and promptly implemented.”
Tinubu noted that the international community has now recognised Nigeria’s significant progress in tackling financial crimes, crediting the NFIU’s efforts for the achievement.
