President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to tackle cybercrime and transnational criminal networks, warning that Nigeria will not serve as a refuge for individuals involved in the exploitation of innocent victims.

The President’s position followed commendation by the Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kash Patel, for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) role in the arrest and extradition of two Nigerian nationals accused of involvement in international sextortion crimes targeting minors.

The suspects, Adebola Festus Adekunle and Mudasiru Afeez Olawale, were arrested and extradited to the United States in August 2026, following a joint investigation under Operation Artemis, which targeted criminal networks involved in the sexual exploitation and extortion of children.

In a letter to EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, Patel praised the Commission’s cooperation, describing its contribution as critical to the success of the operation.

“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 commendation, Tinubu praised the EFCC for its professionalism and commitment to international cooperation, describing the recognition as evidence of the growing capacity of Nigeria’s law enforcement institutions to combat cross-border crimes.

“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.

He maintained that the fight against corruption and financial crimes must be measured by tangible results rather than publicity, stressing the importance of strong institutions, effective enforcement and international partnerships.

The President also cited Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in October 2025 and the European Union’s high-risk financial jurisdictions list in January 2026 as evidence of progress in strengthening the country’s financial integrity framework.

According to him, the developments reflect his administration’s commitment to restoring international confidence, protecting legitimate businesses and creating a secure environment for investment.

Tinubu urged the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to sustain the momentum, assuring them of continued presidential support in tackling financial crimes, protecting citizens and strengthening Nigeria’s credibility among international partners.