US commends Nigeria for 386 terrorism convictions, urges sustained judicial reforms

The United States has commended the Nigerian government for securing 386 convictions in terrorism-related cases, describing it as a significant step towards justice and accountability. Massad Boulosin, the U.S. Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, praised Nigeria’s efforts to fast-track terrorism trials, noting the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays. The U.S. emphasized the importance of timely and transparent legal processes in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, disclosed that out of 508 terrorism-related cases prosecuted at the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court, 386 convictions were secured, with eight discharges, two acquittals, and 112 cases adjourned. The ninth phase of trials, which involved over 500 suspects arraigned under the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, concluded on April 10, 2026, and the tenth phase is scheduled for June 15-18. Fagbemi stated that the inclusion of discharges and acquittals demonstrates the government’s commitment to due process and the rule of law. These convictions occur amidst international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security situation, following a late 2025 designation by former U.S. President Donald Trump of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to concerns over violence linked to extremist groups, a designation the Nigerian governmen