By Ayo Ayodele
The Federal Government has released a list of 48 individuals and 12 corporate entities allegedly linked to terrorism financing, as part of intensified efforts to disrupt extremist funding networks in Nigeria.
The list was published by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee under the Office of the National Security Adviser, which is responsible for implementing sanctions in line with international obligations.
According to the committee, those named are connected to various proscribed groups, including Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Ansarul, and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The sanctions framework, established under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, provides measures such as asset freezes and travel restrictions aimed at curbing terrorism financing and the proliferation of weapons.
Authorities said the latest sanctions list reflects ongoing efforts to enforce United Nations measures and strengthen coordination among security, financial intelligence, and law enforcement agencies.
The development comes amid heightened terrorist activities, particularly in the North-East, and renewed government efforts to prosecute individuals linked to extremist groups.
Meanwhile, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed that no fewer than 386 terrorism suspects have been convicted in ongoing trials.
He revealed that a total of 508 defendants were arraigned during a four-day special court sitting at the Federal High Court in Abuja, facing charges ranging from terrorism financing and logistical support to concealment of information and membership in proscribed organisations.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and ensuring accountability through both financial sanctions and judicial processes.