The United States designates a Nigerian national and multiple companies as alleged financiers or facilitators of ISIS operations, according to a US State Department announcement cited by several Nigerian outlets. Reports say three Nigerians and six companies are included in the designations, spanning Nigeria and other regions. In Nigeria, the listed firms include bureau de change companies in Lagos and Kano: Generation Currency Bureau de Change Limited, Manhattan Bureau de Change Limited, and Nine to Nine Exchange Bureau de Change Limited. The outlets also identify the Nigerian national as Muhammad, described as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), and link him to ISIS activity in Nigeria.
US officials characterize the targeted network as enabling ISIS to move money across borders. The reporting describes alleged support elements outside Nigeria as well, including references to information on explosives and the use of cryptocurrency for fund transfers. The designations are reported to be made under Executive Order 13224, which targets terrorist organizations and their supporters. US officials also reaffirm cooperation with Nigeria, referencing a prior joint operation and stating that diplomatic and legal tools will continue to be used to hold ISIS and its supporters accountable.
