President Tinubu Advocates Enhanced Collaboration with FBI to Combat Cybercrime and Terrorism

By Iyojo Ameh

President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the critical need for strengthened cooperation between Nigerian law enforcement agencies and the United States’ Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in a diplomatic meeting at the State House in Abuja on Saturday.

The discussion, held during a visit by FBI Director Christopher Wray, centered on tackling cybercrime, terrorism, and related criminal activities through joint efforts.

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Mr Tinubu acknowledged the FBI’s sophistication and reputation for excellence, expressing honor at the Director’s visit.

President Tinubu, also serving as the Chairman of ECOWAS, highlighted the pivotal role of collaborative partnerships in combating financial crimes regionally and globally.

He expressed appreciation for the FBI’s expertise and reputation for excellence, underscoring the mutual interest of both nations in eliminating crime.

“Our collaboration with the FBI and other West African nations underscores our commitment to eradicating economic and related crimes,” stated President Tinubu.

Acknowledging the interconnected nature of international crime, Tinubu emphasized the importance of technological support and knowledge transfer from developed countries like the US to aid developing nations in combating complex criminal networks.

“We cannot fight these crimes effectively without global collaboration and advanced technological support,” Tinubu remarked.

In response, FBI Director Christopher Wray commended President Tinubu for his proactive stance in fostering partnerships among government agencies to safeguard citizens from terrorism and cyber-enabled crimes.

“We appreciate President Tinubu’s leadership in countering terrorism in the region, a threat not only to West African countries but also to the United States,” Wray noted.

The FBI Director also acknowledged Nigeria’s efforts in reorganizing its security infrastructure to combat terrorism effectively, particularly praising the success in combating ISIS and other extremist groups in West Africa.

“I assure you of our unwavering support in counter-terrorism efforts, cybercrime prevention, joint investigations, and intelligence sharing. Our relationship with Nigeria is of utmost importance,” Wray affirmed.

Key security officials present at the meeting included National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) Yusuf Magaji Bichi, among others.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to deepen collaboration through enhanced intelligence sharing and joint operations to tackle evolving security challenges in both nations.