From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has intensified its campaign against money laundering with a public enlightenment programme aimed at educating businesses and professionals in Kwara State on regulatory compliance.
The initiative was carried out through the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML), during a live radio engagement on “The Platform,” aired Monday on Midland 99.1FM, Radio Kwara 2 in Ilorin.
During the programme, the Zonal Coordinator of SCUML in Ilorin, Uthman Abdulgafar, explained that the sensitisation was designed to educate operators of Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs), on the importance of registering with SCUML through its electronic registration platform.
Abdulgafar said the Federal Government, established SCUML to monitor and regulate the activities of certain non-financial institutions in order to ensure compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulations.
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He explained that the unit operates under the EFCC and plays a critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system from criminal exploitation.
“SCUML was created to monitor, supervise and regulate designated non-financial institutions so that they comply with Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing regulations,” Abdulgafar said.
He noted that the introduction of the electronic registration system was meant to simplify the process for businesses and professionals required to register with the unit.
According to him, the digital platform allows organisations to complete registration online, upload the required documents and obtain their SCUML certificate without unnecessary delays.
Abdulgafar listed sectors expected to register with SCUML to include real estate operators, hospitality businesses, dealers in precious metals and stones, accountants, auditors, consultants, tax advisers, lawyers involved in financial transactions as well as non-governmental organisations.
He explained that these sectors are considered vulnerable to exploitation by individuals attempting to channel illicit funds into the financial system if adequate regulatory oversight is not in place.
The SCUML coordinator stressed that compliance with registration requirements would enhance transparency and strengthen the credibility of businesses while protecting them from being used as conduits for financial crimes.
“Registration with SCUML not only ensures compliance with the law but also promotes transparency and credibility for businesses,” he said.
Abdulgafar therefore urged operators in the designated sectors to take advantage of the e-registration platform to regularise their operations and align with existing regulations.
He also called on members of the public to support the EFCC’s anti-corruption efforts by reporting suspicious financial transactions and adhering to established financial guidelines.
According to him, the success of Nigeria’s fight against money laundering depends largely on public awareness and cooperation.
