The United States has praised Nigeria for stepping up efforts to fast-track the prosecution of terrorism-related cases, describing the move as a strong commitment to justice and accountability.
The commendation was given by Massad Boulos, U.S. Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, in a statement shared on Sunday. He said Washington welcomed the conviction of 386 Islamist militants, noting that many of the cases had previously faced long delays in court.
“The United States commends the Nigerian government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes,” he said.
Boulos described the convictions as a significant milestone, adding that timely and transparent legal processes are crucial in the fight against extremism.
“We welcome the convictions of 386 Islamist militants… and recognise this as an important step toward accountability and justice,” he added.
He further stressed that strengthening the rule of law is key to maintaining national security and building public confidence in judicial institutions.
The remarks follow a major round of terrorism trials held in Abuja earlier in April, where the Federal High Court handled over 500 cases linked to Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
At the end of the proceedings, 386 suspects were convicted, with sentences ranging from a few years to as much as two decades. Among those convicted was a former senatorial candidate found guilty of supplying fuel to insurgents, alongside others accused of providing logistics such as spare parts and firewood to fighters operating in the Sambisa Forest.
While some defendants were discharged or acquitted, more than 100 cases were adjourned, indicating that the legal process is still ongoing.
The United States reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s efforts to improve judicial efficiency and fairness, noting that sustained progress in this area is vital to long-term stability and security.
