Nigeria Can Defeat Corruption, Says EFCC Chairman

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called on Nigerians to embrace transparency and accountability as a way to eradicate corruption and its effects on the nation’s development.

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukayode, made the appeal at the 12th annual conference of the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria (ACSPN) in Effurun, Delta State. He was represented by Williams Oseghale, Assistant Commander and Head of Public Affairs, Benin Zonal Directorate.

Olukayode said that every major challenge facing Nigeria — from unemployment and poverty to insecurity, hunger and poor healthcare — is rooted in corruption and mismanagement. He described as worrisome the country’s reputation as one of Africa’s most corruption-prone nations.

“The onus is on us as individuals to be accountable, transparent and committed to due process. Every challenge around Nigeria’s socio-economic development today can be traced to the consequences of corruption,” he said.

The EFCC boss urged the media to strengthen advocacy against corruption, desist from glamorising it, and instead focus on investigative journalism to expose fraudsters and public officials who misuse resources.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fighting corruption and praised ACSPN for highlighting the role of governance and the media in building an equitable society.

ACSPN President, Prof. Rotimi Olatunji, said corruption in Nigeria cuts across both petty and grand forms, involving low-ranking officials and political elites alike, undermining growth, investment and security. He urged media practitioners and researchers to amplify accountability and intensify their watchdog role.

The conference, sponsored by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd (TSSNL), attracted prominent academics and communication experts from across the country.