Kehinde Fajobi
President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that his administration is targeting the financial networks of terrorist groups in Nigeria, leading to the conviction of more than 100 terrorist financiers in the past two years.
Speaking on Tuesday at the 2025 National Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Summit in Abuja, Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, emphasised the importance of cutting off resources to terror groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP to protect citizens and restore rural areas.
“We have made progress to tackle the threats of terrorism and other violent crimes through the gallant action of our frontline troops and our security agencies,” Tinubu stated.
“Through the efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation, we have prosecuted and convicted over 100 terrorist financiers in the last two years.
“By taking away the funds, resources and material support behind Boko Haram and ISWAP, we are denying them the ability to inflict terror on our communities and citizens.”
Tinubu also highlighted the significant role of professionals such as bankers, accountants, and lawyers in protecting Nigeria’s financial system, describing them as the “first line of defence” in the fight against financial crimes.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s greylisting in February 2023, stating that the inclusion had grave economic and reputational consequences.
Tinubu noted that the government had committed to addressing the deficiencies identified in the country’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework.
“Through the leadership of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Interior as the Chair and co-Chairs of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on AML/CFT/CPF, and the coordination of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, we have made significant progress to implement this Action Plan,” Tinubu assured.
Hafsat Bakari, CEO of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, called for collaboration in combating financial crimes.
“The fight against financial crimes is not one that any single entity can win alone. It requires the collective strength and commitment of our political leaders, regulators, financial institutions, law enforcement and security agencies, and international partners,” she said.
Bakari emphasised the importance of cooperation to mitigate risks and safeguard the nation’s financial system.