The Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, SCUML, of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has urged freight forwarders in the country to ensure full compliance with the provisions of the money laundering laws and regulations, as a way of tackling money laundering and terrorism financing in Nigeria.
According to a statement on Tuesday, the Lagos Coordinator of SCUML, Pascal Samu, gave the charge when he received members of accredited freight forwarders in Nigeria on a courtesy visit to his office on Monday, May 24, 2021 at the Lagos Zonal Office of the EFCC.
Speaking on the occasion, he said the visit was crucial to creating awareness and seeking the cooperation of registered freight forwarders in the fight against money laundering in the country.
Samu also stated that the cooperation of Designated Non-Financial Institutions (DNFIs), like the freight forwarders, could help combat the scourge of terrorism currently plaguing Nigeria.
He added that “The Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, wants all members of the respective associations to always observe due diligence in carrying out their businesses to avoid sanctions, in line with the Money Laundering Act.”
In his remarks, Dr.Arthur Igilo, a member of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, commended the efforts of SCUML and EFCC in reaching out the members, adding that he would assist in sanitizing the sector by taking the message to other council members.
“I will also ensure that there is a full understanding and compliance of the provisions of the Money Laundering Act,” he said.
In attendance at the event were Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (AREFFN) National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) and Consolidators, Association of Nigeria Licensed Custom Agent (ANLCA)and National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Custom Agents (NCMDCLA).
