The Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) has called on the media to partner in combating terrorism financing and money laundering in Nigeria and across the continent.
The Head of Communications and Advocacy at GIABA, Tim Melaye, made the call during a courtesy visit to the headquarters of Media Trust Group in Abuja on Wednesday.
He described the rising incidence of illicit income-generating crimes in Africa as worrisome, citing corruption, kidnapping, human trafficking and drug trafficking, among others.
He also noted the growing threats of violent extremism across the region.
Melaye further raised concerns over emerging trends such as the use of real estate for money laundering and increasing cases of organ trafficking among youths.
He said the visit to Media Trust Group was aimed at fostering collaboration in sensitisation and advocacy efforts.
“The visit is to ensure partnership for a peaceful, secure and economically viable nation and region through the instrumentality of the media,” he said.
In his response, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Media Trust Group, Ahmed I. Shekarau, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting awareness and advocacy against economic and financial crimes.
He noted that the company has expanded into radio, television and digital platforms, and expressed readiness to collaborate with organisations like GIABA to drive advocacy across various sectors.