We will block financial networks funding terrorism – Army, ICPC

The Nigerian Army and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) are enhancing their cooperation to uncover, identify, and obstruct financial networks believed to be financing terrorism and other illicit activities within Nigeria. This development transpired during a courtesy visit by the Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 23 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Adamu Abdul, to the ICPC Adamawa State Command.

Abdul emphasized the crucial importance of dismantling the sources of funding for terrorist groups to weaken their operations. He stated, "Financial loopholes and other clandestine channels through which criminal and terrorist activities are funded must be identified and decisively blocked."

General Abdul highlighted the role of the ICPC in intelligence gathering, financial investigations, and information exchange with security agencies. He asserted that combating terrorism extends beyond targeting fighters and their operational networks; it also entails addressing the financial channels that enable these groups to obtain resources and sustain their activities.

"The Nigerian Army is eager to build a stronger and more structured partnership with the Commission in these critical areas," he added. Specific security threats cited by the commander included Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and the issue of kidnappings, all of which are considered to have financial and logistical networks that require attention.

In response, the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Okoro Ulu James, expressed the ICPC's readiness to continue collaborating with the military on matters falling within its jurisdiction. He reiterated that both entities have a history of collaboration, including personnel training and information sharing. James underscored the growing importance of enhanced cooperation between anti-corruption and security agencies in addressing Nigeria's multifaceted security and governance challenges.

He assured the military that the ICPC would continue to support initiatives involving financial and intelligence-related measures aimed at thwarting terrorism and other criminal enterprises.