Nigeria’s fight against corruption needs a fierce and united front, according to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede.
Speaking at a meeting with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) in Abuja, Olukoyede stressed the importance of rigorous measures, saying, “You don’t fight corruption with kid gloves in Nigeria; it will never work.”
He emphasised that to make meaningful progress, both agencies must step up their efforts. “A better Nigeria will not just drop from the sky; we have to work for it,” he added.
Olukoyede’s comments come amid rising concerns over Nigeria’s corruption rate, which costs the nation billions each year and hampers foreign investment. He urged the CCB to make the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) fully operational, arguing that a functional tribunal would strengthen anti-corruption efforts. “The CCB’s role in investigations and prosecutions is critical to ensure that the fight against corruption is pursued rigorously,” Olukoyede stated. “Foreigners won’t come and do it for us; we have to deal with it ourselves.”
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Dr. Abdullahi Usman Bello, CCB Chairman, agreed that the partnership between the EFCC and CCB is essential. “The EFCC has distinguished itself in this area, and we look forward to your support,” Bello said, underlining the urgency for mutual collaboration to achieve a more robust anti-corruption strategy. Olukoyede reiterated that collaboration between the EFCC and CCB would send a clear message to Nigerians and international observers alike: that the country is serious about tackling corruption.
The EFCC’s intensified push comes as Nigeria’s reputation on global anti-corruption indexes continues to falter, impacting the economy and everyday lives. Experts argue that corruption limits job creation, hinders access to education, and undermines healthcare systems. Olukoyede’s call to action serves as a rallying cry to Nigerians, urging citizens and institutions alike to support the nation’s long and challenging battle against corruption.
