The Federal Government has announced that more than 730 individuals have been convicted for terrorism-related offences as part of its sustained campaign against terrorism financing and illicit financial flows.
Major General Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), disclosed this during an on-site meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) held on Monday in Abuja.
He noted that over 90 of the convictions were achieved with support from the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), highlighting the impact of strong inter-agency collaboration in disrupting terror-linked financial networks.
“Disrupting the financial lifelines of terrorist organisations is central to our national counterterrorism strategy,” Laka said. “Our ability to prosecute over 730 terrorism-linked cases underscores the success of a coordinated national response.”
He praised the partnership between the NFIU and other agencies, adding that the efforts had led to a significant reduction in the flow of illicit funds into terrorist operations across the country.
Laka also commended the work of the Joint Standard Investigation Committee on Terrorism Financing, describing it as vital to Nigeria’s capacity to tackle complex financial crimes.
The simulation exercise, he said, was designed to assess Nigeria’s institutional readiness and ensure alignment with international standards ahead of the FATF evaluation, which will determine whether Nigeria is removed from the organisation’s Grey List.
In her remarks, NFIU Chief Executive Officer Hajiya Hafsat Bakari highlighted the country’s progress in meeting the 19-point FATF action plan through collective effort.
“This on-site assessment is an opportunity to showcase our achievements and demonstrate our enduring commitment to the FATF framework,” Bakari said. “The global FATF network is watching closely, and expectations are high.”
She added that Nigeria’s selection to host 11 FATF reviewers reflects international confidence in the country’s reforms. Notably, Nigeria has also been invited to become a guest member of the FATF, allowing it to participate in discussions and projects under its own national flag.
“While not yet full membership, this is a significant step forward and recognition of our regional and global leadership in combating financial crimes,” Bakari concluded.
