Our new agreement with Nigeria will help us better identify and stop fraud before it happens, crack down on criminals who exploit our systems
The United Kingdom UK and Nigeria have inked a new joint fraud action plan with the intention of disrupting cross-border criminal networks and increasing protection for victims.
This move is part of an effort to combat the growing number of instances of financial fraud.
Nuhu Ribadu, who serves as Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, emphasized the significance of working together.
Ribadu said, “Building on the foundation of the past successes, we must confront crime with greater seriousness, deepen collaboration across all fronts; addressing enablers, supporting victims, and pursuing perpetrators, and sustain an unyielding commitment to protect our societies.”
The agreement, which was just signed in Abuja, focuses on intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity building, according to a press statement that was signed by Onyinye Madu, who is with the British High Commission Communications Office.
This establishes Nigeria as a significant priority partner in the enlarged Fraud Strategy adopted by the United Kingdom, which is scheduled to be released later this year.
It reads, “Fraud ruins lives. It strips people of their savings, their confidence, and their sense of security. The fact so many of these crimes now originate overseas makes our international partnerships more important than ever.
“Our new agreement with Nigeria will help us better identify and stop fraud before it happens, crack down on criminals who exploit our systems, and ultimately protect the public from the devastating impact of fraud.
“My meetings in Abuja have been hugely constructive, giving us the opportunity to align our efforts and take meaningful action to prevent further harm. I’m proud to have signed this agreement, which sets both our nations firmly on the path to a safer and more resilient future.”
Additionally, the Deputy Director of Fraud at the UK’s National Crime Agency, Nick Sharp said, “Over 70% of fraud impacting the UK is estimated to originate overseas or have overseas links. However, those same fraudsters often also target victims in their own country.
“This Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Republic of Nigeria underscores our shared commitment to tackling a threat that causes significant harm to citizens of both nations.
“By sharing vital intelligence, conducting joint operations, and working to identify and address vulnerabilities, we will strengthen our collective response – ensuring that criminals are brought to justice, wherever they are.”
This agreement is in line with the strategic partnership between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, which aims to strengthen law enforcement cooperation against financial crimes. It comes as a result of the UK-Nigeria Fraud Dialogue, which was initiated in November 2024.