EFCC Chairman Optimistic of Corrupt- Free Nigeria
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed his unwavering optimism about the possibility of achieving a corruption-free Nigeria. With a strong belief in the power of collective effort, strategic policies, and a paradigm shift in societal attitudes.
Marking his one-year anniversary in office, Olukoyede addressed a media conference in Abuja on October 31, 2024, where he highlighted the EFCC’s achievements. The Commission has secured 3,455 convictions, with high-profile figures, including former governors, facing prosecution. These results, according to Olukoyede, demonstrate the potential for systemic change when anti-corruption efforts are sustained and consistent.
In a recent address at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria in March 2025, Olukoyede emphasized the need for collaboration with Nigerian missions abroad to enhance the country’s global image. He stressed that a united front against corruption could significantly elevate Nigeria’s standing and development.
This approach underscores the importance of international cooperation in the fight against corruption.
Olukoyede’s strategy combines enforcement with prevention, prioritizing intelligence-driven operations and asset recovery. The EFCC’s unprecedented seizure of 753 real estate properties in a single operation is a testament to the effectiveness of this approach.
Furthermore, he has been a strong advocate for public engagement, urging Nigerians to actively reject corruption rather than defending corrupt individuals. This point was reiterated during a meeting with the Centre for Crisis Communication in February 2025, where he criticized the tendency to rally behind prosecuted leaders despite widespread complaints about corruption.
The EFCC Chairman’s optimism is rooted in the belief that a collective shift in mindset and behavior can lead to significant positive change. If citizens, institutions, and leaders unite against corruption, he envisions a future where underdevelopment becomes a thing of the past. While acknowledging the deep-rooted challenges, including contradictory public attitudes and systemic leakages in revenue management, Olukoyede remains resolute in his commitment to a corruption-free Nigeria.
In his view, this vision is not merely a distant dream but a practical outcome that can be achieved through determined and coordinated action. As the EFCC continues to make strides in the fight against corruption, Olukoyede’s leadership and unwavering dedication serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter, more prosperous future for Nigeria.
With sustained efforts and a collective commitment to change, the country may finally be able to overcome its long-standing battle with corruption and achieve the development and growth it deserves.
