President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its involvement in a global operation that led to the arrest and extradition of two Nigerians accused of sextortion crimes against minors.
This praise came after a letter from Kash Patel, the Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), who recognized the EFCC’s contribution to Operation Artemis. This joint investigation focused on criminal groups involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.
In his letter to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, Patel noted that the operation successfully led to the arrest and extradition of Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale to the United States in August 2026. Both men are facing federal charges.
“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” Patel wrote.
In response to the FBI’s recognition, Tinubu stated that this acknowledgment shows Nigeria’s commitment to fighting financial crimes and enhancing collaboration with international law enforcement agencies.
The President commended Olukoyede and the EFCC staff for their professionalism, emphasizing that his administration will continue to support organizations working to hold offenders accountable.
“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,” he said.
Tinubu said Nigeria was taken off the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 and removed from the European Union’s list of high-risk financial areas in January 2026. He viewed these changes as positive steps toward improving the country’s financial system.
He mentioned that these advancements are part of a larger goal to rebuild international trust and foster a safe environment for honest businesses and investments.
“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,” the President said.
He encouraged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to keep battling financial crimes and promised them ongoing support from the government.
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