Nigeria wins UNODC–World Bank StAR Award for anti‑money laundering efforts
Nigeria won the UNODC–World Bank–Egmont Group Stolen Asset Recovery (StAR) Initiative Award at the 32nd Egmont Group Plenary in Baku, Azerbaijan. The award recognises the successful collaboration between the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where NFIU‑generated intelligence supported EFCC investigations, leading to asset recovery and disruption of illicit financial networks. NFIU CEO Hafsat Bakari called it a “proud moment for Nigeria” and affirmed the quality of the country’s financial intelligence architecture. This victory comes months after Nigeria exited the FATF grey list in October 2025, signalling restored global confidence in its anti‑money laundering framework. Observers say the award positions Nigeria as a leader in financial intelligence and a key player in shaping global responses to illicit finance. For Nigerians, this achievement strengthens trust in domestic financial institutions and may improve the country’s reputation for international business and investment. With Nigeria’s financial intelligence now internationally recognised, how might this affect your confidence in using Nigerian banks or engaging in cross‑border business?