The Federal Government has secured more than 730 convictions for terrorism-related offences as part of its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism financing and dismantle illicit financial networks.
This was disclosed by the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism CentreMajor General Adamu Laka, during an on-site engagement with the Financial Action Task Force team on Monday in Abuja.
Laka stated that over 90% of the convictions were made possible through the support of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, reflecting the success of inter-agency coordination in disrupting terror funding channels.
“Disrupting the financial lifelines of terrorist organisations is central to our national counterterrorism strategy,” he said.
“Our ability to prosecute over 730 terrorism-linked cases is a testament to the effectiveness of our coordinated national approach. More than 90 convictions were secured with support from the NFIU.”
The NCTC boss commended the collaboration between security and intelligence agencies, noting that their joint efforts had significantly curbed the flow of illicit funds used in financing terror operations across Nigeria.
He also praised the Joint Standard Investigation Committee on Terrorism Financing for its pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to investigate and prosecute complex financial crimes.
Speaking on the upcoming FATF evaluation, which will determine whether Nigeria exits the organisation’s Grey List, Laka stressed the importance of collective national preparedness.
“The strength of our collective preparation will determine the success of the upcoming FATF visit and, ultimately, Nigeria’s removal from the FATF Grey List,” he said.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hajiya Hafsat Bakari, said Nigeria had made notable progress on its 19-point action plan, thanks to the collaborative efforts of all relevant agencies.
“This on-site exercise presents an opportunity to showcase our progress and demonstrate unwavering national commitment to an effective anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regime,” Bakari stated.
She described the FATF’s decision to send 11 evaluators to Nigeria as a mark of growing confidence in the country’s reform efforts.
“In the past, it was difficult to find reviewers willing to visit African countries for this process. So, the fact that Nigeria is hosting 11 reviewers is indeed a sign of the trust the FATF places in us,” she added.
Bakari further revealed that Nigeria has been invited to join the FATF as a guest member, a recognition of its leadership in counter-terrorism and anti-financial crime efforts in the region.
“Though this does not make us a full member yet, it is a significant step forward in earning a seat at the global decision-making table,” she affirmed.
