The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday, March 3rd, partnered with the Nigerian army and the Department of State Services (DSS) to tackle illegal mining and terrorism financing in Kwara state.
The initiative, led by EFCC Ilorin zonal director, Victoria Ugo-Ali, involves enhanced intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated enforcement aimed at disrupting criminal networks that exploit illicit mineral extraction to fund extremist activities.
At the army headquarters, Ugo-Ali called for coordinated action against illegal mining, which she described as a major threat to Nigeria’s economic stability and national security.
She noted that illicit mining operations are typically driven by organised criminal networks that evade regulatory controls and deprive the nation of critical revenue.
Ugo-Ali also drew attention to the link between illegal mining and terrorism financing, explaining that proceeds from unlawful mineral extraction are sometimes channelled into funding violent and extremist activities.
She stated that disrupting the financial flows from illicit mining is central to the EFCC’s mandate and requires robust collaboration with the military.
Brigadier general Nicholas Rume, commandant of the 22 armoured brigade, commended the EFCC for its proactive approach and pledged full support for anti-corruption and economic crime initiatives.
He assured that the brigade would facilitate joint operations, timely exchange of intelligence, and capacity-building programmes to strengthen enforcement across the state.
During her visit to the DSS office, Ugo-Ali stressed the importance of intelligence-driven collaboration in tackling economic crimes and terrorism, noting that corruption and illicit financial activities often serve as enablers for extremist groups.
Kwara state DSS director, Michael Oganwu, pledged actionable intelligence and strategic cooperation to ensure effective enforcement and sustainable peace across the region.
Comments