FATF Delisting: UK Envoy Commends Tinubu’s Reforms

FATF Delisting: UK Envoy Commends Tinubu’s Reforms
President Tinubu described the delisting as a “strategic victory” for Nigeria’s economy
FAFT placed Nigeria on its grey list in 2023

The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, has commended Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, describing it as a reflection of the reforms introduced by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Montgomery said the delisting marks a positive turning point for Nigeria’s economy and global reputation.

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“Brilliant news that the Financial Action Task Force @FATFNews has de-listed Nigeria from the ‘grey list’. Reflects strong efforts to implement reforms by @NigeriaGov and opens up new opportunities for trade and investment,” Montgomery wrote.

The FATF, the world’s leading standard-setting body for combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing, placed Nigeria on its grey list in 2023 for strategic deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework.

After two years of comprehensive reforms and sustained institutional collaboration, Nigeria was officially delisted at the FATF October 2025 Plenary in Paris.

FATF Delisting: UK Envoy Commends Tinubu’s Reforms

The process was coordinated by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), working closely with the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and the Minister of Interior.

Reacting to the development, President Tinubu described the delisting as a “strategic victory” for Nigeria’s economy and a validation of his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

“The exit from the FATF grey list marks the beginning of a new chapter in our financial reform agenda. We will sustain these institutional reforms, deepen collaboration, and continue to build a financial system that Nigerians and the world can trust,” the President stated.

Tinubu also commended the Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, and her team for their professionalism and dedication, noting that their efforts earned Nigeria global recognition for strengthening its capacity to combat financial crimes.

He further praised the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Customs Service, and other partner agencies for their collaboration in achieving the milestone.

The removal from the FATF grey list is expected to enhance Nigeria’s global financial standing, improve investor confidence, and facilitate easier trade and cross-border transactions.