President Bola Tinubu commends the EFCC after FBI Director Kash Patel praises Nigeria’s role in Operation Artemis, which led to the arrest and extradition of two suspects accused of international sextortion crimes against minors.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following recognition by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for Nigeria’s role in an international operation targeting criminal networks involved in sextortion and the sexual exploitation of minors.
The commendation followed a letter from FBI Director Kash Patel to EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, acknowledging the commission’s contributions to Operation Artemis, a joint investigation into organised criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.
The operation resulted in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, in August 2026. Both suspects are facing federal charges in the United States.
In the letter, Patel acknowledged the EFCC’s cooperation and dedication to international law enforcement efforts.
“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” the FBI Director wrote.
Reacting to the recognition, President Tinubu described the commendation as further evidence of Nigeria’s progress in combating financial crimes and strengthening international security cooperation.
He praised the EFCC chairman and his team for their professionalism and commitment to tackling criminal activities, particularly those targeting vulnerable individuals.
“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.
“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 said.
The commendation comes amid growing international recognition of Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its anti-corruption framework and financial crime prevention mechanisms.
Among the developments cited by the Presidency were Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 and its removal from the European Union’s list of high-risk financial jurisdictions in January 2026.
President Tinubu said the developments reflected his administration’s commitment to improving financial integrity, restoring international confidence and creating a secure environment for legitimate businesses and investment.
“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,” he stated.
The President urged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to sustain their efforts against financial crimes, assuring them of his administration’s continued support.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting Nigerians, strengthening international partnerships and improving the country’s reputation in global efforts to combat financial and other forms of organised crime.
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