The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has revealed that Nigeria secured 860 terrorism-related convictions and recorded 891 acquittals between 2017 and 2025, demonstrating the government’s commitment to due process in prosecuting extremist offences.
Fagbemi made this known on Tuesday while speaking with judiciary correspondents after a closed-door meeting with a visiting United States congressional delegation in Abuja. The meeting followed an earlier engagement in Washington about a month ago.
According to the AGF, the discussion aimed to provide the U.S. delegation with firsthand insight into Nigeria’s security realities and the government’s efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism. He stressed that Nigeria’s security challenges are not rooted in religion but criminality, which the government continues to address through coordinated security operations and strict legal processes.
He explained that the country’s justice system ensures proper profiling of suspects before prosecution. Those found innocent are released, while individuals with credible cases against them are charged to court for judicial determination.
Fagbemi also confirmed ongoing terrorism trials, insisting that despite existing challenges, Nigeria’s security situation is “not as grim as portrayed.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability nationwide.
The U.S. congressional delegation, in Nigeria on a fact-finding mission, also visited the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Defence Staff, civil society groups, and religious organisations. The delegation is expected to issue its public remarks before departing the country.
