By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its role in an international investigation that led to the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian sextortion suspects in August 2026. The commendation followed a letter from FBI Director Kash Patel, who praised the commission’s cooperation in Operation Artemis. The operation targeted criminal networks involved in sexually exploiting and extorting children.
The development highlights Nigeria’s growing cooperation with international law enforcement agencies in tackling financial and cyber-related crimes.
FBI Praises EFCC For International Cooperation
In a letter addressed to EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, FBI Director Kash Patel acknowledged the commission’s contributions to Operation Artemis.
The joint investigation targeted criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and online extortion of minors.
Patel praised the EFCC for its dedication and assistance throughout the investigation.
He also stressed that international law enforcement cooperation helped secure successful outcomes.
The FBI Director specifically acknowledged the commission’s role in apprehending and extraditing the suspects.
Two Nigerian Suspects Face Charges In US
The operation led to the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects in August 2026.
They are Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale.
Both suspects now face federal charges in the United States over their alleged involvement in international sextortion crimes.
Their extradition followed cooperation between Nigerian and American law enforcement authorities.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed the development in a statement on Saturday.
Tinubu Reaffirms Support For EFCC
Reacting to the FBI’s commendation, President Tinubu praised the EFCC chairman and his team for their professionalism.
He described the recognition as evidence of Nigeria’s progress in fighting financial crimes.
The President also urged the commission and other security agencies to sustain their efforts.
Furthermore, he assured them of his administration’s continued support.
Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria must protect its citizens and strengthen its international reputation.
He said:
“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.”
Tinubu Highlights Nigeria’s Anti-Corruption Progress
The President linked the FBI’s recognition to Nigeria’s broader financial crime reforms.
He cited the country’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025.
Nigeria also secured removal from the European Union’s high-risk financial jurisdictions list in January 2026.
According to Tinubu, these developments demonstrate his administration’s commitment to financial integrity.
He added that stronger institutions would restore international confidence and attract legitimate investments.
The President described the EFCC’s performance as an example of the institutional standards his government wants nationwide.
Nigeria Must Not Become A Safe Haven For Criminals
Tinubu maintained that Nigeria must never provide shelter for criminals who exploit innocent people.
He stressed that law enforcement agencies must pursue offenders and ensure accountability.
However, he insisted that authorities must always operate within the law.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting Nigerians and combating financial crimes.
He said the government would continue supporting institutions that strengthen national security and international cooperation.
