RismadarVoice Reporters, August 26, 2026
President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, CFR, has called for stronger international cooperation and institutional collaboration to fight economic crime and illicit financial activities.
Justice Dongban-Mensem made the call while delivering a keynote address at the 43rd International Symposium on Economic Crime held at Jesus College, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
The annual symposium brings together judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, legislators, regulators, financial experts, academics and other professionals from more than 100 countries to examine strategies for preventing and combating economic crime.
The Court of Appeal President said corruption has far-reaching human and societal consequences, stressing that every stolen public resource represents more than a financial loss.
She noted that in Nigeria, corruption can result in unbuilt schools, unequipped hospitals, incomplete infrastructure and communities being deprived of essential services and opportunities.
Justice Dongban-Mensem therefore described asset recovery as an important component of restoring justice, rather than merely recovering money or property.
She stressed that recovered assets must be lawfully preserved, transparently managed and appropriately utilised in the public interest.
The jurist also highlighted the importance of cooperation among judges, prosecutors, investigators, legislators, regulators, financial institutions, academics and civil society organisations, noting that no single institution or country can effectively combat economic crime alone.
She called for stronger restorative justice systems and institutional capacity, particularly in jurisdictions where illicit assets are identified, concealed or located.
Justice Dongban-Mensem further urged participants to ensure that international cooperation strengthens, rather than undermines, constitutional protections and the rule of law.
She expressed hope that the symposium would produce practical and sustainable solutions for tackling the evolving nature of economic crime.
The Court of Appeal President added that justice prevails when nations collaborate, institutions act with purpose and commitment to the rule of law remains resolute, stressing that no criminal enterprise, however powerful or complex, should be beyond the reach of justice.
