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The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has celebrated Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List, describing the development as proof of the country’s collective capacity to strengthen anti-corruption standards, enforce transparency, and boost international confidence.
FAAN’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, in an official reaction on Thursday, said the achievement was a victory for Nigeria’s reputation, governance systems, and commitment to global compliance.
She also reaffirmed FAAN’s continued determination to promote openness and accountability in airport operations and in all dealings linked to national financial integrity.
“I am profoundly proud and elated at this remarkable achievement,” Mrs Kuku stated. “This success serves as further evidence of our nation’s capacity to achieve great things when we work together with a common purpose.”
She said the removal of Nigeria from the FATF Grey List means the country will no longer be under special international monitoring for weaknesses in its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CFT) frameworks.
According to her, this development will not only restore confidence among global partners but also make international trade easier and cheaper for Nigerian businesses, while strengthening the attractiveness of Nigeria as a destination for foreign capital.
“This is a positive development that restores global confidence, facilitates easier and more cost-effective international trade for Nigerian businesses, and enhances our appeal to foreign investors,” she added.
Mrs Kuku also lauded all government agencies involved in the process that led to the removal, especially the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). She extended special congratulations to the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, for her role in coordinating the collaboration that delivered the result.
“I wish to extend my special congratulations to the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, for her passion and for effectively coordinating all other agencies to achieve this remarkable feat. Congratulations and well done to everyone,” she said.
The FAAN boss emphasised that the Authority actively contributed to closing the strategic gaps earlier identified by FATF, and would sustain efforts to ensure that Nigeria never returns to any form of negative global listing.
She further urged potential investors to take a renewed look at Nigeria’s aviation and wider economic environment, assuring them that the country now stands even more ready to deliver security, transparency, and profitable returns.
The statement was endorsed by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire.