Access Bank PLC has reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s fight against illicit drug trafficking and money laundering, pledging to enhance its collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This commitment was highlighted during a formal ceremony at Access Bank’s headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos, where the Group Chief Executive Officer, Roosevelt Ogbonna, and the Group Chief Conduct and Compliance Officer, Femi Jaiyeola, were honored as partners in the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA).

The NDLEA continues to report significant increases in drug seizures across major Nigerian cities, as the country faces ongoing challenges in combatting drug trafficking and abuse. Given that these illicit activities often rely on financial networks to launder their profits, financial institutions like Access Bank play a pivotal role in disrupting these operations.

Speaking at the event on behalf of Roosevelt Ogbonna, Abraham Aziegbe, Group Head of Retail Operations, reiterated Access Bank’s dedication to combating financial crimes that enable drug trafficking. “As one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, we understand the critical role we play in ensuring our systems are not used to facilitate illicit activities. Our compliance framework is designed to detect and deter financial crimes. This partnership with the NDLEA is essential for strengthening national security,” Aziegbe said.

The ceremony, chaired by Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, Deputy Commander General of Narcotics and Director of Assets and Financial Investigation at NDLEA, praised Access Bank’s proactive stance in preventing money laundering and its support for law enforcement efforts. Dr. Abdul commended the bank’s ongoing efforts to ensure that drug traffickers and their associates cannot exploit the financial system.

Also in attendance were Omolade Fagboyegbe, Deputy Commander General of Narcotics and Director of Seaport Operations and Marine Services, as well as senior officials from Access Bank, including Omobola Faleye, Group Head of Internal Audit; Robert Imowo, Group Head of Corporate Counsel; and Daniel Patrick, Unit Head of Regulatory Compliance.

This partnership further cements Access Bank’s role as a key ally in Nigeria’s fight against drug-related financial crimes and underscores the bank’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the financial system.