A former Managing Director of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Robert Orya, has been convicted and sentenced to prison over a massive ₦2.4 billion fraud. The judgment was delivered on February 5, 2026, by Justice F. E. Messiri of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, following a prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Orya, who led NEXIM Bank between 2011 and 2016, was found guilty on 49 counts related to financial misconduct. The court sentenced him to 10 years imprisonment on each count, amounting to a combined jail term of 490 years. The prosecution was handled by EFCC counsel Samuel Ugwuegbulam, who presented evidence that convinced the court of Orya’s guilt.
The EFCC said the conviction highlights its determination to hold public officials accountable, especially those entrusted with managing public funds. According to the anti-graft agency, the case shows how financial institutions can be abused when proper oversight is ignored, and why strong enforcement is necessary to protect the economy.
The sentencing has sparked public discussion on corruption and accountability in Nigeria’s banking sector. Many observers believe the ruling sends a strong message that financial crimes, regardless of status or position, will be punished. The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing similar cases to deter corruption and restore public confidence in government institutions.
