The United States yesterday applauded the Bola Tinubu government for “addressing terrorism and related crimes”, welcoming “the convictions of 386 Islamist militants”.

In a statement on X, US Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Fares Boulos, also praised the government for addressing long-standing delays in the courts.

Boulos emphasised the importance of timely and transparent legal processes in combating extremism and reinforcing public confidence in judicial institutions, while stressing that adherence to the rule of law remains vital for national security and long-term stability.

He said: “The United States commends the Nigerian government for its strong commitment to expediting trials addressing terrorism and related crimes. “We welcome the convictions of 386 Islamist militants in cases that had previously faced significant delays in the courts, and we recognise this as an important step toward accountability and justice.

“We believe that timely and transparent legal processes are critical in confronting extremism and reinforcing public trust in judicial institutions. Upholding the rule of law remains essential to ensuring the safety, stability, and long-term security of all Nigerians, and we support continued efforts to strengthen judicial efficiency and fairness across the country.”

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi said on Friday that 386 terrorism suspects were convicted by the Federal High Court, Abuja during a four-day mass trial. According to him, the convicts were among 508 defendants prosecuted by his office, representing a conviction rate of about two-thirds.