Strengthening Accountability and Enforcement in Nigeria’s Terrorism Financing Framework

Abstract

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Sanctions Committee, has released an updated list of 48 individuals and 12 entities allegedly linked to terrorism financing, representing one of the most extensive disclosures in Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts in recent years. The action, grounded in the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, is intended to strengthen efforts to disrupt financial networks that sustain terrorist activities. It comes amid ongoing national security challenges and follows earlier disclosures, including a similar list issued in 2024. While the publication of the list signals a commitment to transparency and enforcement, concerns persist regarding the effectiveness and consistency of follow-up actions. Previous disclosures have not always been accompanied by visible enforcement outcomes such as arrests, prosecutions, or asset recovery, contributing to public scepticism about institutional capacity and political will. In the absence of timely and coordinated action, there is a risk that the current disclosure may not achieve its intended deterrent effect. Key issues include the lack of clear and publicly available information on enforcement progress, including the status of investigations, arrests, and prosecutions linked to both current and previous listings. Gaps in public communication, including limited disclosure of identifying details or evidentiary bases for listings, further weaken public trust and may hinder citizen cooperation. In addition, systemic constraints such as delays in the judicial process, evidentiary challenges, and potential political interference continue to undermine effective prosecution of terrorism financing cases. These challenges bring to the fore the need for stronger institutional coordination among security agencies, financial regulators, and the judiciary, as well as improved transparency and accountability mechanisms. Without such measures, the publication of suspected financiers risks being perceived as symbolic rather than operational. Given its constitutional oversight role, the National Assembly has a critical responsibility to ensure that counterterrorism measures translate into measurable outcomes. Legislative engagement is necessary to strengthen enforcement credibility, address institutional bottlenecks, and ensure compliance with due process and international obligations. Accordingly, the National Assembly, through its Committees on National Security and Intelligence, Defence, Interior, Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, and Judiciary, may consider the following actions: 1. Convene a joint oversight hearing and invite relevant agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and the Attorney-General, to provide detailed briefings on the status of investigations into listed individuals and entities, arrests made and planned enforcement actions, and asset freezing and financial tracking measures. 2. Demand periodic public reporting to the National Assembly and the public on progress made regarding prosecutions and convictions, asset recovery efforts and inter-agency collaboration outcomes. 3. Require that future disclosures of alleged terrorist financiers include verified identifying details (e.g., photographs where legally permissible) and a clear explanation of the basis for listing, consistent with due process. 4. Request a comprehensive audit and briefing of previously released lists (e.g., 2024 disclosures), including actions taken, outcomes achieved and lessons learned. 5. Ensure that enforcement actions comply with constitutional guarantees, preventing misuse or politicisation of terrorism-related allegations.