Get Guardian on GoogleThe Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has vowed to intensify its clampdown on illicit financial flows in Nigeria’s aviation sector, following revelations of widespread money laundering through chartered flight services and fraudulent ticketing schemes involving foreign airlines.
During a strategic meeting with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, stressed the Commission’s determination to rid the sector of entrenched financial crimes.
Olukoyede disclosed plans to deploy senior officers to work with NCAA officials in developing a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint investigations, intelligence sharing, and compliance monitoring.
“Aviation is an area where we have seen money laundering, particularly through chartered services. That is why we have been reaching out to you, and we will continue until we achieve the desired results,” Olukoyede said.
He also urged the NCAA to tighten oversight on private terminals, which he described as “hotbeds” for illicit financial transactions.
In a statement, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said the Commission flagged concerns about non-remittance of revenues by some airlines and manipulation of ticketing systems, especially by foreign operators, as priority areas for enforcement action.
Responding, the NCAA Director-General acknowledged the agency’s limitations in tackling financial fraud and requested EFCC’s support in training its staff to detect red flags, hosting joint sensitization workshops, and enhancing inter-agency intelligence sharing.
“The NCAA cannot fully achieve its mandate without the support of the EFCC,” the DG stated, commending the Commission for its efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system.
Olukoyede reaffirmed EFCC’s readiness to collaborate closely with the NCAA, describing such partnerships as crucial to protecting the aviation industry from economic sabotage.
