The United States has frozen the assets and properties of eight Nigerians accused of ties to Boko Haram and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, as well as others involved in cybercrime and security threats.
The move was revealed in a 3,000-page document dated February 10, 2026, released by the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.
The list identifies individuals and entities whose property is blocked under US sanctions programs aimed at countering terrorism and cyber threats.
“This publication provides notice of actions taken against Specially Designated Nationals and other persons whose property is blocked, helping the public comply with US sanctions programs,” OFAC stated.
Among those sanctioned is Salih Yusuf Adamu, also known as Salihu Yusuf, who was reportedly involved in establishing a Boko Haram fundraising cell in the United Arab Emirates. Six men, including Yusuf, were convicted in 2022 for attempting to transfer $782,000 from Dubai to Nigeria to support insurgents.
Other notable individuals include Abu Abdullah ibn Umar Al-Barnawi (Ba Idrisa), Abu Musab Al-Barnawi (Habib Yusuf), Khaled Al-Barnawi (Abu Hafsat/Mohammed Usman), Ibrahim Ali Alhassan, and Abu Bakr ibn Muhammad ibn Ali Al-Mainuki (Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki), all flagged under terrorism-related sanctions. Babestan Oluwole Ademulero, linked to cybercrime activities, was also included.
The OFAC sanctions prohibit US persons from engaging in financial transactions with those designated and block all property and interests within US jurisdiction.
These actions are part of broader US efforts to prevent terrorism financing and cyber threats.
The sanctions follow recommendations by the US Congress for visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and groups accused of violating religious freedom in Nigeria.
Among those recommended for visa restrictions were former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria.
The US Treasury emphasized that Boko Haram was designated as a foreign terrorist organization in 2013, responsible for numerous deadly attacks across Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin.
“These designations are part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts and reflect the US commitment to blocking financial support for terrorist organizations,” OFAC said.
