Olukoyede demands more commitment from EFCC operatives

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has called for greater commitment, integrity, and professionalism from operatives of the Commission as it intensifies efforts to combat economic and financial crimes in the country.

Speaking after a three-day Management Retreat for EFCC Directors in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, Olukoyede stressed that the agency’s effectiveness depends on the integrity and professionalism of its workforce.

A statement on Saturday by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said the EFCC boss commended the dedication of the operatives in achieving some milestones in 2024 and urged them to redouble their efforts to surpass last year’s record.

The statement partly read, “Professionalism and integrity are key to the future relevance and effectiveness of the EFCC. Integrity is a fragile commodity that we must carefully nurture, protect, and safeguard to guarantee the trust and respect of our various publics”.

Olukoyede urged them to redouble their efforts to surpass last year’s record and uphold the integrity of the Commission’s processes

“In 2024, the Commission secured 4111 convictions and hauled monetary recovery of over N365.4billion. The EFCC’s boss appreciated the sacrifice, hard work, discipline, and commitment of the staff of the Commission in making such achievements. He called for increased dedication to surpass the records of 2024 and greater commitment to the integrity of processes in the agency. “

Olukoyede expressed optimism about the Commission’s future, stating, “In another six months, we will deliver a brand new EFCC in Nigeria.”

Oyewale said key speakers at the retreat also reinforced the need for EFCC operatives to demonstrate unwavering commitment to their duties.

Professor Tonnie Iredia, who spoke on “The Role of Personnel in Information Management and Public Perception of the EFCC,” emphasized that public misperceptions about the agency often stem from deliberate distortions and cynicism.

He lauded Olukoyede’s leadership and called for more public involvement in the anti-corruption fight.

Similarly, Oyewale said Femi Falana, SAN, traced the evolution of the EFCC and reaffirmed its critical role in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts.

He commended the commission’s resilience in tackling corruption and assured that judicial challenges hindering its mandate would be addressed.