The Kano Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) have pledged to deepen collaboration in intelligence sharing and operational coordination to curb illicit financial flows and protect the integrity of the electoral process.
The commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the new Chief of Aviation Security at MAKIA, Aliyu Yahuza Abdullahi, to the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC Kano Directorate, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I) Friday S. Ebelo.
Speaking during the visit, Abdullahi assured the Commission of his support.
“I want to assure the EFCC of my firm and unwavering support. We are opening a new vista of cooperation, particularly in intelligence sharing, which is critical in dismantling syndicates that exploit the aviation sector for illicit financial flows,” he said.
He added that AVSEC was ready to provide operational support to the Commission but requested prior notice for airport operations.
“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the EFCC to provide the most effective assistance to its operations. However, we appeal to the Commission to always carry us along and give advance notice whenever there is an operation at the airport. This prior notification will enable us to deploy our resources efficiently and seamlessly to support EFCC operatives in the field,” Abdullahi stated.
Responding, Ebelo welcomed the pledge and stressed the need for heightened vigilance, especially concerning the movement of large sums of cash through the airport.
“With the general elections drawing closer, there is a high risk that money may be used as a tool in the hands of politicians. We must be proactive in intercepting funds intended for unlawful purposes,” he said.
He further noted that stronger inter-agency collaboration was essential to safeguarding democracy.
“A coordinated front will not only deter economic saboteurs but also protect the democratic process from the corrosive influence of illicit funds,” Ebelo added.
