President Tinubu Hails EFCC As FBI Commends Nigeria’s Role In International Sextortion Crackdown
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its role in strengthening international law enforcement cooperation following commendation from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects involved in international sextortion crimes against minors.
The commendation followed a letter from FBI Director, Kash Patel, to EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, acknowledging the Commission’s contributions to Operation Artemis, a joint investigation targeting criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.
According to a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the FBI Director specifically recognised the EFCC’s assistance in apprehending and extraditing two Nigerian suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, in August 2026.
The two suspects are currently facing federal charges in the United States over their alleged involvement in the crimes.
In his letter, Patel expressed appreciation to the EFCC Chairman and highlighted the importance of cooperation between both countries in tackling transnational criminal activities.
He stated that the successful outcome of the cases would not have been possible without the Commission’s assistance, dedication and commitment to international law enforcement collaboration.
Reacting to the recognition, President Tinubu described the FBI’s commendation as further evidence of Nigeria’s growing efforts to combat financial crimes and strengthen its cooperation with international security and law enforcement agencies.
The President noted that the recognition also reflects the progress recorded by his administration in strengthening the country’s anti-corruption framework and restoring confidence in Nigeria’s financial system.
He further referenced 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 as significant developments in the country’s efforts to improve financial transparency and integrity.
According to the statement, these achievements demonstrate the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, restoring international confidence and creating a more secure environment for legitimate businesses and investment.
President Tinubu urged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to sustain their efforts in tackling financial and other transnational crimes, while strengthening collaboration with international partners.
He also assured the agencies of his administration’s continued support in protecting Nigerians, safeguarding the country’s financial system and improving Nigeria’s standing within the international community.
