President Bola Tinubu has warned cybercriminals and transnational criminal networks against using Nigeria as a safe haven, declaring that his administration will pursue offenders who exploit innocent victims within and outside the country.
The President’s position followed commendation by the Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel, for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s role in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian nationals accused of involvement in international sextortion crimes targeting minors.
The suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, were arrested and extradited to the United States in August 2026 following a joint investigation under Operation Artemis, which targeted criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.
In a letter to the EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, Patel praised the commission’s cooperation, describing its contribution as critical to the success of the operation.
“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” the FBI director stated.
Reacting to the commendation, Tinubu praised the EFCC for its professionalism and commitment to international cooperation, describing the recognition as evidence of the growing capacity of Nigeria’s law enforcement institutions to tackle cross-border crimes.
“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.
“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 said.
Tinubu maintained that the fight against corruption and financial crimes should be measured by tangible results rather than publicity, stressing the need for strong institutions, effective enforcement and international partnerships.
He also cited Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list in October 2025 and the European Union’s list of high-risk financial jurisdictions in January 2026 as evidence of progress in strengthening the country’s financial integrity framework.
According to him, the developments reflected his administration’s commitment to restoring international confidence, protecting legitimate businesses and creating a secure environment for investment.
The President urged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to sustain the momentum, assuring them of continued government support in tackling financial crimes, protecting citizens and strengthening Nigeria’s credibility among international partners.
[GUARDIAN]
