The House of Representatives has lauded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for their joint efforts in recovering over ₦566 billion, $411 million, and 1,502 properties, as well as securing 3,175 convictions as of October 2025.
The commendation was delivered on Monday by the Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Crimes, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, during the 2025 budget performance review and the 2026 budget defence of the two agencies.
Onwusibe also applauded the agencies for Nigeria’s recent removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, describing the development as a significant milestone in the country’s anti-corruption and anti-money laundering efforts.
He noted that the delisting would boost Nigeria’s global standing, improve access to foreign investment and credit, expand trade opportunities, and strengthen overall financial stability.
According to him, the recoveries and convictions recorded by the EFCC were achieved with strong support from the NFIU through enhanced financial intelligence and inter-agency cooperation.
“These accomplishments reflect the leadership of the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, and the NFIU Director, Hajia Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, as well as the commitment of their respective teams,” Onwusibe said.
While acknowledging the progress made, the lawmaker stressed the need for sustained professionalism, transparency, and accountability in the anti-corruption drive, noting that Nigerians remain keenly observant of the agencies’ operations.
He added that the 2026 budget focuses on infrastructure development, food security, macroeconomic stability, job creation, and human capital development, but warned that effective implementation would be crucial to achieving meaningful impact.
Onwusibe also referenced the International Monetary Fund’s projection of a 4.4 per cent economic growth for Nigeria in 2026, attributing the outlook to ongoing reforms and increased domestic demand.
Reaffirming the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to the fight against corruption, he disclosed that the committee had reviewed four key bills aimed at strengthening the legal framework against financial crimes, including proposed amendments to the EFCC Act, the Money Laundering Act, and the Proceeds of Crime Act.
He assured that reports on the bills would soon be presented to the House and expressed confidence that they would receive expedited presidential assent.
On the 2026 budget proposals of the EFCC and NFIU, Onwusibe said the committee would ensure alignment with legislative priorities and prudent use of public resources, with emphasis on boosting investigative and prosecutorial capacity, improving asset recovery, enhancing international cooperation, building institutional strength, and addressing emerging threats such as cybercrime and virtual assets.
“These agencies are central to Nigeria’s economic stability and security, and must be properly funded while maintaining the highest standards of accountability,” he said.