FBI Hails Nigeria Over Global Child Sextortion Crackdown, Tinubu Commends EFCC
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its role in a joint international operation that led to the arrest and extradition of two Nigerians accused of sexually exploiting and extorting minors.
The commendation followed a letter from the Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kash Patel, to EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, acknowledging the Commission’s contribution to Operation Artemis, a joint investigation targeting criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.
The operation culminated in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, in August 2026. Both are currently facing federal charges in the United States.
In the letter, Patel acknowledged the EFCC’s assistance, noting that the successful prosecution of the cases would not have been possible without the Commission’s commitment and cooperation.
“The successful outcome of these cases would not have been possible without your assistance and dedication to international law enforcement collaboration,” the FBI Director stated.
Reacting to the recognition, President Tinubu described the commendation as an endorsement of Nigeria’s efforts to combat financial crimes and strengthen international law enforcement partnerships.
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He praised the EFCC leadership and personnel for their professionalism, stressing that Nigeria must not become a safe haven for individuals who exploit innocent people, either within the country or abroad.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies in identifying, apprehending and prosecuting offenders in accordance with the law.
The commendation comes amid other developments in Nigeria’s international financial compliance record, including its removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 and the European Union’s list of high-risk third-country jurisdictions in January 2026.
According to the President, these developments demonstrate his administration’s commitment to strengthening financial integrity, restoring international confidence and creating a secure environment for legitimate businesses and investment.
Tinubu maintained that the effectiveness of the anti-corruption campaign should be measured by tangible results rather than publicity, emphasising the importance of strong institutions, effective law enforcement and sustained international cooperation.
He consequently urged the EFCC and other security and law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts against financial crimes and other transnational criminal activities.
The President assured the agencies of his administration’s continued support, noting that their work remains critical to protecting Nigerians, holding offenders accountable and strengthening the country’s credibility among international partners.
The statement was issued on Saturday, October 31, 2026, by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
By PRNigeria
