Tax evasion, financial misconduct undermine national growth — EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has described tax evasion, false declarations, and other financial malpractices as grave economic offences that deny Nigeria vital resources for national development.

The Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC’s Kano Zonal Directorate, Sa’ad Hanafi, stated this during a one-day sensitization workshop jointly organized by the EFCC, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA).

The event, themed “Enhancing Trade Compliance and Adherence to Legal Regulations,” focused on strengthening transparency and promoting lawful business practices.

Hanafi said such illegal financial activities hinder government’s ability to fund critical infrastructure and social services.

He emphasized that the Commission, in collaboration with sister agencies, is leveraging intelligence and technology to identify and dismantle trade-related financial crimes.

“Compliance is not a burden but a strategic advantage,” Hanafi said. “Tax evasion and false declarations rob the nation of much-needed resources.

“The EFCC, alongside other agencies, is determined to ensure transparency and accountability across all sectors.”

He stressed that the workshop reflects a joint commitment to creating a transparent and compliant business environment, adding that cooperation between law enforcement and the private sector is essential for sustainable growth.

In her remarks, Zonal Coordinator of the Nigeria Customs Service, Zone B, Nsikan Umoh, highlighted the deployment of advanced technologies — including Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and Trade Facilitation tools such as the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) and the Overtime Cargo Clearance System — to enhance efficiency, predictability, and transparency in customs operations.

She commended the collaboration, describing the workshop’s theme as timely and in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for economic prosperity.

Earlier, President of KACCIMA, Usman Darma, pledged the chamber’s continued partnership with law enforcement agencies to promote compliance and educate its members on trade regulations.