President Bola Tinubu has hailed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) commended Nigeria for its role in an international crackdown on sextortion crimes targeting minors.
The commendation followed a letter from FBI Director Kash Patel to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, recognising the Commission’s contribution to the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects involved in an international investigation.
In the letter, Patel acknowledged the EFCC’s role in Operation Artemis, a joint investigation targeting criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.
The operation led to the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, to the United States in August 2026. Both suspects are facing federal charges in the country.
“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” Patel wrote.
President Bola Tinubu Commends EFCC for Professionalism
Reacting to the FBI’s recognition, President Tinubu described the commendation as further evidence of Nigeria’s efforts to combat financial crimes and strengthen international law enforcement cooperation.
The President praised Olukoyede and his team for their professionalism and dedication, stressing the importance of building strong institutions capable of tackling criminal activities.
“This is the kind of institutional performance we are determined to build across our country. I commend the EFCC Chairman and his team for their professionalism and dedication,” Tinubu said.
He added that Nigeria must not become a safe haven for individuals involved in criminal activities, particularly those who exploit innocent people within and outside the country.
“Nigeria must never become a haven for criminals who exploit innocent people, whether at home or abroad. Our law enforcement and anti-corruption institutions have my full support to pursue offenders and bring them to justice in accordance with the law,” the President stated.
Nigeria Exits FATF Grey List and EU High-Risk List
The FBI’s commendation comes amid developments in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its anti-money laundering and financial crime prevention framework.
In October 2025, Nigeria was removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list after addressing identified deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing systems.
The country was also removed from the European Union’s list of high-risk third countries for money laundering and terrorism financing in January 2026, with the decision taking effect on January 29.
These developments have been highlighted by the Tinubu administration as evidence of progress in strengthening Nigeria’s financial system, improving international cooperation and restoring confidence among global partners.
President Tinubu said the milestones reflect his administration’s commitment to promoting financial integrity and creating a secure environment for legitimate businesses and investments.
Tinubu Reaffirms Support for Anti-Corruption Agencies
The President maintained that the fight against corruption should be measured by tangible results rather than publicity.
“Our fight against corruption is not measured by publicity but by results. Stronger institutions, effective law enforcement and international cooperation are essential to building a Nigeria where honest enterprise can thrive, and criminals are held accountable,” he said.
Tinubu also urged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to sustain their efforts in tackling financial crimes and protecting Nigerians from criminal exploitation.
He assured the agencies of his administration’s continued support, emphasising the need to strengthen Nigeria’s international standing through effective law enforcement and cooperation with global partners.
