EU Delists Nigeria: Another Global Validation of Renewed Hope Reforms

The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) warmly welcomes the decision of the European Union to remove Nigeria from its list of “high-risk third-country jurisdictions” for money laundering and terrorism financing. This decisive action, which also affects South Africa, Burkina Faso, Mali, Mozambique, and Tanzania, is a powerful endorsement of Nigeria’s reform trajectory and a clear affirmation that the country is moving steadily in the right direction.

This delisting is not accidental. It reflects sustained improvements in Nigeria’s financial governance architecture, strengthened regulatory oversight, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and a renewed commitment to transparency and compliance with global standards. It validates the painstaking reforms undertaken by the Federal Government to tighten safeguards, improve enforcement, and align Nigeria with international best practices.

Beyond symbolism, the implications are profound. Nigeria’s removal from the high-risk list restores confidence among international investors, eases cross-border transactions, reduces compliance burdens for Nigerian businesses, and enhances access to global financial systems. It sends an unmistakable signal that Nigeria is open for business-credibly, responsibly, and competitively.

For the opposition, this development is inconvenient. It punctures the long-running narrative of demarketing Nigeria abroad and exposes the hollowness of incessant predictions of doom. While some continue to talk the country down, the facts-verified by independent international institutions-tell a different story of progress, discipline, and reform.

The Lagos APC commends the Federal Government for its resolve and focus, and urges Nigerians to take pride in this milestone. Governance is a marathon, not a sprint; but each credible validation strengthens confidence and accelerates momentum. Nigeria’s global standing is improving, not because of rhetoric, but because of measurable actions and outcomes.

We call on all stakeholders to rally behind this progress, deepen reforms, and reject the politics of pessimism. The message from Europe is clear: Nigeria is regaining trust, credibility, and respect on the world stage.

Mogaji (Hon.) Seye Oladejo
Spokesman, Lagos State APC
17/01/26