The International Law Association (ILA Nigeria) is set to examine the growing threats of tax evasion, illicit financial flows, money laundering and other corruption-related economic crimes in a three-day conference in Abuja.
  
The event, billed to hold at the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abuja, will feature keynote addresses, masterclasses, panel discussions and networking sessions, reinforcing the forum’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most influential gatherings on global legal governance.
  
Since its inception in 2014, the yearly conference has served as a meeting point for policymakers, practitioners, academics, diplomats and students, offering a platform for the study and advancement of international law frameworks across key sectors.
  
While briefing newsmen on the 2026 edition, chairperson of the conference organising committee, Dr Grace Dafiel, said the theme, “Mitigating Economic and Financial Crime Risks in a Shifting Global Order: The Role of International Law”, reflects the urgency of strengthening legal tools to combat economic crimes that undermine national stability and development.
  
According to her, the conference, which commenced yesterday in Abuja, will deepen conversations on how international law can support more effective regulatory enforcement and risk mitigation in areas such as tax evasion, cross-border illicit financial flows, corruption and money laundering. 
  
She noted that the event is open not only to lawyers but also to professionals in business and finance, advocates, academics and students with an interest in international legal practice.
  
Speakers at the conference would include former Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Dr Fatou Bensouda; Director General of GIABA, Edward Harris; former ICPC chairman, Prof Bolaji Owasonoye (SAN) and UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed M. Malick, among others.

President of ILA Nigeria and Chairperson of the United Nations Working Group on Business and Human Rights, Prof Damilola Olawuyi (SAN), described tax evasion and illicit financial flows as multifaceted threats to sustainable development that require innovative legal solutions.
 
“Without tax, the government cannot build roads, equip hospitals or support research,” he said, stressing that tax evasion and illicit financial flows should be understood not only as development issues but as human rights concerns.
  
He added that stakeholders must remain informed about evolving global standards, as effective risk management tools are essential for anticipating and preventing economic and financial crime risks. 
  
“This year’s conference hopes to equip participants with the latest information and international best practices,” he said.
  
Highlights of the event will include a President’s Dinner and Awards Night, featuring a keynote gala conversation on emerging international frameworks shaping policy, corporate governance and investment strategies for combating financial crime risks.