In a bold step to tackle Cybercrime and organised criminal activities in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has given a new order to Security agencies, encouraging them to intensify their operations to capture cyber offenders and individuals engaged in various types of international crime. This instruction aligns with his dedication to enhancing the national economic and Financial Stability and ensuring that Nigeria does not become a place for illegal properties and criminal activities. Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser for Information and Strategy, conveyed the latest directive and stressed the critical need to tackle the country’s increasing cybercrime incidents.
Furthermore, the current government administration is committed to pursuing not only cyber offenders but also those associated with organised crime, such as individuals involved in the trafficking of stolen vehicles into the country. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) are agencies designated to combat these offences. Moreover, the recent operation that prompted his order involved the EFCC handling 53 vehicles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). These assets were reclaimed for two Canadians targeted by cybercriminals based in Nigeria.
Importance of global and local security cooperation was emphasised.
This recovery emphasises the vital role of global cooperation in tackling cybercrime activities. It further illustrates the region’s dedication to collaborating with international law enforcement bodies to guarantee that criminal activities are not confined to national boundaries. President Tinubu commended the EFCC for its diligence and success in recovering stolen properties for their legitimate owners. Collaborating with global agencies such as the RCMP, the EFCC, and various Law Enforcement Agencies can disrupt cross-border criminal organisations. Tinubu emphasised that a key strategy in combatting crime is to cut off criminals from their illegal profits, reducing the attraction of criminal activities.
Meanwhile, Tinubu is especially worried about organised crime groups illegally exporting stolen cars into the country. This escalating problem damages the nation’s image and promotes a setting that encourages criminal behaviour. By ensuring that Nigeria is no longer a destination for these stolen assets, Tinubu is sending a clear message that the country will not tolerate being used as a hub for criminal businesses. His remarks emphasised the crucial role of collaboration among anti-corruption bodies in defending the financial system against organised crime.
Nigerian govt strives to follow both domestic laws and global conventions.
He pointed out that all relevant agencies must unite to preserve the nation’s economic integrity and prevent criminals from thriving. Likewise, Tinubu insisted that any assets seized from criminal groups must be preserved and managed according to existing legislation. This includes ensuring that the value of these confiscated items, including vehicles and funds, is not lost but returned to society or the victims. In doing so, they aim to abide by both domestic laws and international conventions, ensuring that justice is served and victims of crimes are compensated.
As a result, the President’s dedication to combating crime extends beyond protecting the nation’s reputation globally. It serves as a clear signal to citizens and the global community alike that the country is genuinely intent on tackling its domestic challenges related to corruption, organised crime, and cybercrime. Tinubu aims to stop unlawful behaviours and rebuild confidence in both financial and economic frameworks by strengthening laws and international partnerships. This order reflects a plan to enhance National Security and economic structures.
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Lastly, the government emphasises combating cybercrime to hold offenders accountable and protect innocent individuals, including foreign nationals, who these international offences could target. With the onset of the enforcement campaign, Nigerians should anticipate increased government action targeting cybercriminals and other areas penetrated by organised crime. By asserting that illicit properties will find no refuge, President Tinubu’s government is setting the way for a future in which Nigeria’s economic and judicial frameworks are stronger, more transparent, and gain international respect.