EFCC Explains Why Some SCUML Applications Were Unsuccessful

In response to public concerns and a recent editorial by The Vanguard questioning the efficiency of the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering (SCUML), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has offered clarifications, shedding light on why some applications for the SCUML certificate were unsuccessful.

The EFCC emphasised that the SCUML registration portal is fully functional and accessible, processing an average of 600 applications daily from businesses and individuals across Nigeria.

The unit’s digital infrastructure, according to the Commission, has undergone multiple updates to improve user experience and streamline certification procedures.

Available statistics indicate that the traffic of applications for the Unit’s certificate across the country averages 600 applications daily.

Regular reviews and updates are made on the portal to ensure the processes are as seamless as possible.

The agency said the application process is simple with clear instructions on critical requirements, especially as it relates to the size or format of documents.

It stated further that the portal does not limit uploads to a single file, adding that registration for certificates has been simplified for applicants with their complete documents.

“The turnaround time for the issuance of certificates to successful applicants has been cut to between two to three days.

“This fact was perhaps instrumental in SCUML’s recent endorsement by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), which in its July 2025 ranking, rated it 3rd among all Nigerian public service entities.

“It also adjudged it as one of the leading public service delivery entities following the vision of the PEBEC to make businesses in Nigeria easier, more transparent and less bureaucratic,” it said.

Contrary to the Vanguard editorial’s claims of “vague messages”, “illegible documents” appearing on the registration portal are digital responses to errors committed by applicants who failed to adhere to instructions outlined on the portal and initiated registration in defiance of established protocols.

“The Unit sadly discovered that many applicants apply with non-functional emails, incomplete information, or conflicting data, thereby rendering their application unsuccessful.

“The Unit has been working to address this challenge, which is partly attributable to poor digital literacy among the applicants, with various sensitisation programmes in the media and enlightenment workshops for stakeholders across the country.

“The helplines of the unit are also available for those who encounter difficulties in making the online application.”

The agency said process improvement and excellent service delivery are core values of SCUML.

“Over the years, it has consistently worked to improve customers’ experience through innovation.

“In the next few weeks, the unit plans to introduce digital animation in the three major Nigerian languages – Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba – with a step-by-step guide on how to submit the online application.

“The Unit is also reviving its radio and television jingles for deeper penetration of the grassroots.

“These features, it is hoped, will erase the challenges still being experienced by some applicants.”

It said SCUML would continue to improve its processes in the overall interests of Nigerians.