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The Federal Government has announced that over 730 people have been convicted of terrorism-related crimes as part of its enhanced efforts to tackle terrorism financing and dismantle illegal financial networks.
The National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Major General Adamu Laka, made this announcement during an on-site meeting of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in Abuja on Monday.
He revealed that more than 90 convictions were achieved with the direct assistance of the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit, highlighting the success of collaboration between agencies in monitoring and disrupting financial networks that aid terrorist organizations.
He stated, "Disrupting the financial lifelines of terrorist groups is central to our national counterterrorism strategy."
He emphasized the government's commitment to this goal and the importance of partnership with both local and international stakeholders, including the U.S. Department of Treasury.
"Our ability to prosecute over 730 terrorism-related cases demonstrates the effectiveness of our coordinated national approach. More than 90 convictions were secured with support from NFIU," he noted.
He praised the teamwork between NFIU and other relevant agencies, which he indicated had significantly curtailed the influx of illegal funds into terrorism activities throughout the nation.
The NCTC coordinator also acknowledged the crucial contributions of the Joint Standard Investigation Committee on Terrorism Financing, which he described as vital to strengthening Nigeria's ability to investigate and prosecute complex financial crimes.
Laka explained that the simulation exercise was intended to assess Nigeria's institutional readiness and align strategies ahead of the FATF evaluation, which will decide whether Nigeria can exit the organization's Grey List.
In her comments, CEO of NFIU, Hajiya Hafsat Bakari,noted that remarkable progress has been made towards completing all 19 action items in their action plan through united national effort.
Bakari stated that the on-site exercise was an opportunity to showcase the advances made and the ongoing commitment to an effective national FATF framework.
She emphasized that the global FATF network is closely watching Nigeria, and the expectations are high.
"The significance of this assessment is highlighted by the size of the team coming to Nigeria. We will be hosting 11 reviewers who will cover all immediate outcomes in our action plan.
Given the difficulties FATF has encountered in finding reviewers for some African countries, this is a clear indication of confidence in Nigeria,” she said.
She also expressed her pleasure that, in recognition of the outstanding work done and Nigeria's leadership both regionally and globally, FATF has invited the country to become a guest member.
“This means Nigeria will participate under its own flag in discussions and projects of the FATF.
While this does not equate to full membership, it is still a significant step towards securing a seat at the table and reaffirms that we are on the right path," she concluded.
