Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have pledged to deepen cooperation in the fight against economic crimes, including money laundering, smuggling, and trade-based illicit financial flows.
The renewed commitment was made during a strategic meeting in Ibadan on Monday, when Comptroller G.I. Aliyu, newly appointed Customs Area Controller for Oyo and Osun states, paid a courtesy visit to Hauwa Ringim, Acting Director of the EFCC’s Ibadan Zonal Office.
A statement from EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, released Wednesday, confirmed that the agencies will focus on intelligence-sharing and joint operations to address cross-border financial crimes and economic sabotage.
Speaking during the visit, Aliyu highlighted the crucial role of the Customs Service in revenue generation and border security, noting that the agency’s mandate frequently overlaps with that of the EFCC. “This visit is strategic in strengthening our existing collaboration. The synergy between the NCS and the EFCC is indispensable,” he said.
Aliyu emphasized that both agencies face common challenges—such as money laundering disguised through trade, the smuggling of contraband, and the evasion of tariffs—that undermine Nigeria’s fiscal and economic stability. “We must work hand in hand to combat these threats through intelligence-led enforcement and inter-agency coordination,” he added.
He also commended the EFCC under Executive Chairman Ola Olukoyede for its progress in asset recovery, enforcement, and public education. According to Aliyu, these achievements reinforce the Customs Service’s own drive toward accountability, transparency, and professionalism.
In her remarks, EFCC Zonal Director Hauwa Ringim welcomed the collaboration and described the visit as timely and strategic. She reiterated the Commission’s readiness to share actionable intelligence and collaborate through joint task forces and inter-agency training initiatives.
“Our shared goal is a more secure and transparent economic environment. The EFCC is committed to partnering with the Customs Service to enhance national revenue, combat financial crimes, and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s economic laws,” Ringim stated.
She noted that financial crimes and smuggling are not isolated threats but interconnected challenges that require unified efforts across law enforcement and regulatory institutions.
The deepened alliance between the EFCC and NCS is expected to improve operational efficiency and help dismantle illicit trade networks that continue to erode Nigeria’s economic base and international financial credibility.
