Ex-Binance Executive Accuses NSA Nuhu Ribadu of Tarnishing Nigeria’s Reputation

Former Binance Head of Crime Compliance, Tigran Gambaryan, has accused Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, of damaging the country’s global image, particularly during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

In a series of posts on X, Gambaryan alleged that:

• Ribadu’s actions angered the White House, leading to visa restrictions on Nigeria’s UNGA delegation.
• US President Joe Biden refused to meet with President Bola Tinubu due to the diplomatic fallout caused by Ribadu.
• Ribadu embarrassed Nigeria in front of former US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and miscalculated his global influence.

He wrote:

"Ribadu overstepped his authority and embarrassed Nigeria in front of Jake Sullivan. His arrogance led to diplomatic repercussions—Biden refused to meet Tinubu, and the US limited visas for Nigeria’s UNGA delegation."

Gambaryan’s ordeal in Nigeria lasted eight months after he was arrested for alleged money laundering.

• The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) formally charged Binance and Gambaryan in April 2024 as part of a broader crackdown on cryptocurrency platforms.
• His arrest followed CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso’s claim that $26 billion was funneled through Binance without proper oversight.

Gambaryan concluded his statement by calling the situation an "international incident", criticizing Ribadu’s leadership, and expressing disappointment in Nigeria’s handling of the case.