NFIU's Hafsat Bakari to Lead Nigeria Chapter of Global Women in AML/CFT Network

Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and Nigeria’s National Correspondent to the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), is set to lead the launch of the Nigeria Chapter of the Women in Anti-Money Laundering, Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Counter-Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/CPF) Network. The launch is scheduled for October 6.

This initiative underscores Nigeria's dedication to advancing women's leadership, professional growth, and collaborative efforts within the AML/CFT/CPF community. The network aligns with the global movement established during the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Singapore Presidency and expanded under Mexico's leadership. It serves as a vital platform for empowering women professionals through mentorship, knowledge exchange, leadership development, and the pursuit of professional excellence.

Bakari highlighted the significant contributions of women across Nigeria's AML/CFT/CPF landscape, spanning government institutions and the private sector. She noted their strategic roles in financial intelligence, investigations, regulation, compliance, risk management, legal advisory, financial services, fintech, and corporate governance, all crucial for strengthening Nigeria's financial integrity framework and combating financial crime.

"The Women in AML/CFT/CPF Network will provide a platform for experienced professionals in both public and private sectors, to mentor the next generation, encourage greater collaboration across institutions and ensure that more women are equipped to take on leadership roles in shaping the future of financial integrity and security in the AML/CFT/CPF ecosystem," Bakari stated. The Nigeria Chapter will unite women from various entities, including Financial Intelligence Units, law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and academia. Through mentorship, technical exchanges, and capacity-building, the network aims to foster a stronger, more connected community. Nigeria will also advocate for a West Africa Chapter through GIABA to extend these benefits regionally.

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The Women in AML/CFT/CPF Network will provide a platform for experienced professionals in both public and private sectors, to mentor the next generation, encourage greater collaboration across institutions and ensure that more women are equipped to take on leadership roles in shaping the future of financial integrity and security in the AML/CFT/CPF ecosystem.