The Nigerian government has secured 90 convictions from over 730 prosecuted terrorism-related cases, marking a significant step forward in its battle against violent extremism and financial crimes.
Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), disclosed this on Monday during an official engagement with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in Abuja.
He said a major focus of Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategy is dismantling financial networks that sustain terrorist operations. “Our ability to prosecute over 730 terrorism-linked cases is a testament to the effectiveness of our coordinated national approach,” Laka said. “More than 90 convictions were secured with support from the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU).”
Laka praised the inter-agency collaboration, especially the contributions of the NFIU and other security and financial bodies. He also credited the Joint Standard Investigation Committee on Terrorism Financing for its “crucial” role in investigating and prosecuting financial crimes tied to terrorism.
According to Laka, a recent simulation exercise tested Nigeria’s institutional readiness for an upcoming FATF on-site evaluation, a critical step in efforts to exit the agency’s “Grey List.” “The strength of our collective preparation will determine the success of the FATF visit,” he said.
Speaking at the same meeting, Hajiya Hafsat Bakari, Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, said Nigeria has made significant strides in fulfilling the FATF action plan, addressing all 19 action points through a coordinated national effort.
“The FATF has shown confidence in Nigeria by sending 11 reviewers for the on-site assessment,” she said. “This is a recognition of the excellent work we have all done.”
She added that Nigeria has also been invited to join FATF as a guest member, a step she described as symbolic of global trust in the country’s reforms. While not yet full membership, Bakari said it allows Nigeria to participate under its own flag in FATF projects and discussions.
“It’s a reaffirmation that we are on the right track,” she concluded.
