U.S. Freezes Assets of Eight Nigerians Over Link to Boko Haram 

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The U.S. has frozen the assets of eight Nigerians linked to Boko Haram and ISIL.

A 3,000-page document from the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) identifies these individuals to enforce counter-terrorism compliance and block their financial interests within U.S. jurisdiction.

OFAC explained that this publication is “designed as a reference tool providing actual notice of actions by OFAC with respect to Specially Designated Nationals and other person whose property is blocked, to assist the public in complying with the various sanctions programmes.”

The list includes Salih Yusuf Adamu, convicted in the UAE for funding insurgents, and key figures like Abu Musab Al-Barnawi. Others, such as Nnamdi Orson Benson, were sanctioned for cybercrimes, while some individuals have origins in Borno State, a major conflict zone.

U.S. lawmakers also recommended sanctions against former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and the Miyetti Allah association. These recommendations stem from alleged extremist links and concerns over religious freedom violations and the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

The sanctions strictly prohibit U.S. persons from transacting with those listed and ensure their assets remain inaccessible. This move reinforces the 2013 designation of Boko Haram as a foreign terrorist organization and aims to dismantle global insurgency funding networks.

President Donald Trump recently re-designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” regarding religious freedom.

This reflects heightened international pressure and the continued use of economic sanctions to address insecurity and human rights issues in the region.