President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following recognition from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for its role in tackling international sextortion crimes involving minors.
The commendation came in a letter from FBI Director Kash Patel to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, acknowledging Nigeria's contribution to Operation Artemis, a joint investigation aimed at dismantling 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. The duo are currently facing federal charges in the United States over their alleged involvement in the crimes.
Patel acknowledged the EFCC's cooperation and dedication, noting that the successful prosecution of the cases would not have been possible without the Commission's assistance and commitment to international law enforcement partnership.
Reacting to the development, President Tinubu described the FBI's recognition as evidence of Nigeria's growing efforts to tackle financial crimes and improve cooperation with international security agencies.
The President commended Olukoyede and other EFCC officials for their professionalism, stating that their performance reflects the kind of effective public institutions his administration is working to establish across the country.
Tinubu maintained that Nigeria must not become a safe haven for individuals who engage in criminal activities or exploit innocent people, regardless of whether their victims are within or outside the country.
He assured the EFCC and other anti-corruption agencies of his administration's full support in investigating criminal activities and ensuring that offenders face justice in accordance with the law.
The recognition also comes amid other international developments that have improved Nigeria's standing in the fight against financial crimes. The country was removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 and subsequently taken off the European Union's list of high-risk financial jurisdictions in January 2026.
Tinubu said the developments reflect his government's determination to strengthen financial regulations, restore international confidence and create a safer environment for businesses and investors.
According to the President, the success of the anti-corruption campaign should be measured by concrete achievements rather than public statements, adding that strong institutions, effective investigations and international partnerships remain essential to achieving lasting results.
He urged the EFCC and other relevant agencies to remain committed to their responsibilities, assuring them of continued government backing in the fight against corruption, financial crimes and other criminal activities.
The President also stressed the need to protect Nigerians from exploitation while strengthening the country's relationship with international partners in the pursuit of justice and security.
The statement was issued on Saturday, October 31, 2026, by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
0 Comments
DISCLAIMER
The views and opinions expressed on this platform as comments were freely made by each person under his or her own volition or responsibility and were neither suggested nor dictated by the owners of News PLATFORM or any of their contracted staff. So we take no liability whatsoever for such comments.
Please take note!