President Bola Tinubu has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following praise from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for its role in arresting and extraditing two Nigerians accused of involvement in international sextortion crimes targeting minors. This commendation reflects Nigeria's growing cooperation with international law enforcement agencies in combating financial crimes and protecting vulnerable people. The president's statement was issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The commendation followed a letter from FBI Director Kash Patel to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, acknowledging the commission's contribution to Operation Artemis, a joint investigation targeting criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children. The operation resulted in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, in August 2026. Both suspects are currently facing federal charges in the United States.
Patel praised the EFCC's cooperation, saying the successful outcome of the cases would not have been possible without its assistance and commitment to international law enforcement collaboration. This cooperation is part of Nigeria's efforts to strengthen its financial integrity and restore international confidence. The president's commendation highlights the importance of institutional performance in building a robust law enforcement system across the country.
Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria would not tolerate criminals who exploit innocent people, whether within the country or abroad. He pledged continued support for the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies, urging them to pursue offenders in accordance with the law. The president's stance on corruption and financial crimes aligns with his administration's efforts to improve the business environment.
The commendation comes after Nigeria's removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 and the European Union's list of high-risk financial jurisdictions in January 2026. According to the presidency, these developments are evidence of the administration's efforts to strengthen financial integrity and restore international confidence.
Tinubu described the recent developments as a testament to his administration's commitment to fighting corruption and financial crimes. He urged anti-corruption agencies to sustain their efforts, stressing that stronger institutions, effective law enforcement, and international cooperation were essential to combating financial crimes and protecting Nigeria's international reputation.
The president concluded by stating that the fight against corruption is not measured by publicity but by results. He commended the EFCC Chairman and his team for their professionalism and dedication, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies to achieve tangible results in the fight against corruption and financial crimes.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu commends EFCC for FBI praise on sextortion arrests
- Nigeria removed from FATF grey list and EU's high-risk financial jurisdictions list
- EFCC cooperation with FBI leads to arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects
