By Mathew Dadiya and Elizabeth Tanko
Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s Counter-Terrorism Prosecution Strategy has recorded another major milestone with 791 fresh convictions at the conclusion of the 11th Phase of Terrorism Trials, bringing total convictions across 11 phases to 2,512.
The National Coordinator, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Major General Adamu Garba Laka announced this at a press briefing on Tuesday in Abuja to mark the end of trials held at the Federal High Court, Abuja, from October 15-17 and 22-24, 2026.
According to the NCTC, 1,069 terrorism-related cases were handled across 10 courts during the phase, consolidating on 1,721 convictions recorded in the first 10 phases.
A breakdown of the 11th phase shows:
791 convictions, 7 acquittals, 41 discharges, 4 cases struck out, 3 withdrawn, 211 adjourned, 11 pending and 1 in other category.
Security Watch Africa checks reveal the outcomes underscore Nigeria’s adherence to rule of law in counter-terrorism operations, with acquittals and discharges affirming judicial independence and due process.
Death Penalty For Terror Commander:
The highlight of the phase was the conviction and sentencing to death of Suleiman Abu, a Boko Haram member found guilty of membership of a terrorist group and participation in attacks on military facilities and civilians resulting in deaths and grievous injuries.
The NCTC Coordinator, Maj Gen Laka said the judgement demonstrates that Nigeria’s justice system treats terrorism with utmost seriousness and that perpetrators are held accountable when guilt is established beyond reasonable doubt, irrespective of affiliation.
In a significant shift towards dismantling support structures, 201 terrorism-financing cases were handled in this phase alone.
The Centre noted that financiers, facilitators and recruiters constitute the lifeline for weapons procurement, logistics, movement and recruitment.
“Accountability extends beyond direct perpetrators to persons who knowingly finance, facilitate or otherwise support terrorism. We will continue to strengthen cooperation among investigative, financial intelligence and prosecutorial institutions to disrupt these networks,” Major General Laka stated.
The NCTC paid tribute to victims, survivors, and fallen military and security personnel, stressing that convictions alone are insufficient without sustained victim support, rehabilitation, psychosocial care and community restoration.
The Centre also raised concern over witness safety, calling for strengthened lawful measures to protect witnesses and their families from intimidation, threats and reprisals.
“This is crucial to preserving integrity of proceedings and ensuring testimony free from fear,” he said.
The NCTC commended the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Honourable Justices, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Director of Public Prosecutions, Legal Aid Council, security and investigative agencies, and custodial authorities for inter-agency coordination, evidence management and effective case preparation.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief, and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, mni, for sustained political will and strategic leadership driving the prosecution strategy.
The NCTC reaffirmed Nigeria’s resolve to pursue a comprehensive approach combining security, justice, prevention and respect for human dignity.
“With 2,512 convictions, Nigeria remains resolute against terrorism and its sponsors, while upholding constitutional safeguards, presumption of innocence and judicial independence,” Major General Laka, declared.
