Tinubu commends EFCC over role in US sextortion case

President Bola Tinubu Photo: State House

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission following a letter from the Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation, Kash Patel, praising the anti-graft agency’s role in apprehending and extraditing two Nigerians linked to an international sextortion ring targeting minors.

Tinubu conveyed his commendation in a statement signed Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, titled ‘Tinubu hails EFCC as FBI commends Nigeria’s role in international sextortion crackdown.’

In his letter to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the FBI Director acknowledged the Commission’s contribution to 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 Adekunle and Mudasiru Olawale, in August 2026.

Both are currently facing federal charges in the United States.

“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” Patel wrote.

President Tinubu described the FBI’s commendation as further recognition of Nigeria’s progress in combating financial crimes and deepening international law enforcement cooperation.

He said, “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.”

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“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 added.

The development comes amid a run of positive international assessments of Nigeria’s anti-corruption and financial crime reforms.

Nigeria was removed from the Financial Action Task Force grey list in October 2025 and from the European Union’s list of high-risk financial jurisdictions in January 2026.

Tinubu said the milestones reflected his administration’s commitment to restoring international confidence in the country’s financial system.

He stated, “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 urged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to sustain their momentum, assuring them of his administration’s continued backing in protecting Nigerians and strengthening the country’s standing among its international partners.