Ruling party says decision validates financial reforms and counters negative global perceptions
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has welcomed the European Union’s decision to remove Nigeria from its list of “high-risk third-country jurisdictions” for money laundering and terrorism financing, describing the move as a significant endorsement of the country’s ongoing economic and financial reforms.
The EU’s decision, which also affected South Africa, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mozambique, and Tanzania, was announced as part of a broader review of countries’ compliance with global anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the spokesman of the Lagos State APC Hon. Seye Oladejo, the Lagos APC said Nigeria’s delisting reflects sustained improvements in the country’s financial governance framework, including stronger regulatory oversight, improved inter-agency cooperation, and increased alignment with international compliance standards.
Party Credits Federal Government Reforms
According to the ruling party, the development validates reforms implemented by the Federal Government to strengthen safeguards in the financial system, enhance enforcement mechanisms, and promote transparency.
The Lagos APC noted that Nigeria’s removal from the list has practical implications beyond reputational gains, including improved investor confidence, smoother cross-border financial transactions, and reduced compliance hurdles for Nigerian businesses operating internationally.
The party said the decision sends a signal to the global market that Nigeria remains open to investment under a more credible and accountable regulatory environment.
Political Reactions
The APC also took a swipe at opposition voices, arguing that the EU decision contradicts narratives portraying Nigeria as economically unstable or poorly governed.
According to the statement, international validation from independent institutions weakens claims that Nigeria is moving in the wrong direction and instead points to measurable progress driven by reforms.
Call for Continued Support for Reforms
While acknowledging that governance reforms take time, the Lagos APC urged Nigerians to see the delisting as a milestone that strengthens momentum for further economic and institutional improvements.
The party called on political stakeholders to support ongoing reforms and avoid what it described as pessimistic narratives that could undermine national confidence.
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