Nigeria, a nation rich in natural resources, has been grappling with the significant challenge of illicit financial flows (IFFs). These illicit flows, primarily concentrated in the oil sector and financial institutions, have siphoned away substantial wealth from the country, hindering its development and exacerbating socio-economic inequalities.
To address this pressing issue, Policy Alert, in partnership with Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Oxfam and other civil society organizations under the Fair Finance Nigeria, has been actively engaged in fostering community involvement and buy-in to combat IFFs. A recent two-day stakeholders consultative workshop, held in collaboration with the Host Community Development Trust (HCDTF) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was a crucial step in this direction.
The workshop aimed to extract community support for the forum’s mandate to curb IFFs in Nigeria. By engaging directly with local stakeholders, the organizers sought to understand their concerns, priorities, and potential contributions to the fight against these illicit activities.
The communiqué issued at the conclusion of the workshop highlighted key outcomes and recommendations and in all, the workshop served as a valuable platform for dialogue and collaboration between communities, civil society organizations, and government representatives.
Policy Alert remains committed to working with communities and partners to create a Nigeria free from the detrimental effects of illicit financial flows. Through continued advocacy, education, and community engagement, we aim to ensure that the nation’s resources are used for the benefit of its citizens and contribute to a more equitable future.
