EFCC Chairman Urges Youth to Lead Anti-Corruption Movement at Grassroots

In a resounding call to action, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has urged Nigerian youths to champion the fight against corruption, particularly at the grassroots level.

Speaking during the “Head to Head” debate programme held at the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) Training Facility in Abuja on Wednesday, 21st August 2024, Olukoyede emphasised the crucial role young people play in shaping the future of the nation.

The event, which aimed to instil strong moral values among secondary school students, drew attention to the importance of integrity and responsibility in building a better society. Represented by the Head of the Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit of the EFCC, Assistant Commander Aisha Mohammed, Olukoyede stressed that the voices of the youth are integral to the success of the anti-corruption campaign.

Addressing the students, Aisha Mohammed conveyed the EFCC Chairman’s message, urging the younger generation to take ownership of the anti-corruption movement. “You are the future of this country,” she stated. “Your voices matter in this fight, and you must carry the anti-corruption message to the grassroots. From today, make it a personal mission to uphold integrity and do what is right, even when no one is watching.”

She encouraged the students to embody honesty and accountability in their daily lives, reminding them that the future of Nigeria depends on collective efforts to combat corruption. “Nigeria is the only country we have,” she added, “and we must all work together to make it great.”

In line with the event’s theme of promoting good morals, Assistant Superintendent of the EFCC, Olalekan Ogunjobi, delivered a compelling presentation on the dangers of cybercrime. Warning the students to avoid falling into the trap of online fraud, Ogunjobi highlighted the increasing pressures from peers and even family members that could tempt young people into criminal activities.

“Cybercrime is not the answer, no matter how difficult the pressure may seem,” he cautioned. Ogunjobi also pointed out that the digital space offers legitimate avenues for success, urging the students to explore ethical ways to harness the internet for their benefit.

“There are countless opportunities to earn a living online, and you can make good money without resorting to fraud,” he reassured the students, emphasising the importance of staying on the right path.

Dr. Alhassan Sule, the Executive Chairman and Board Secretary of UBEC’s Federal Capital Territory Chapter, echoed the sentiments of the EFCC representatives. He asserted that education is a key solution to many of Nigeria’s current challenges and committed to ensuring that every child in the FCT has access to schooling.

“We are using you as advocates of change,” he told the students, encouraging them to reach out to their peers who are not attending school. “If they refuse, inform your teachers, and we will take action. Education is the foundation of responsible citizenship, and by ensuring that every child has access to learning, we are laying the groundwork for a better future.”

Dr. Sule also highlighted UBEC’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with various agencies, including the EFCC, to promote integrity, responsibility, and positive societal change.

The “Head to Head” debate programme was conceived as part of a broader initiative to address the out-of-school crisis in Nigeria and refocus the energy of the country’s youth towards positive, constructive goals. By instilling strong moral values and promoting the fight against corruption, the event organisers hope to inspire a new generation of leaders who will be guided by integrity, honesty, and a commitment to national development.

As the debate concluded, the message was clear: Nigeria’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the changemakers of today. With their engagement and dedication, the battle against corruption can reach every corner of the nation, building a future that is more just, transparent, and prosperous.

The event drew significant attention on social media, with participants and onlookers sharing their experiences and rallying behind the call for a more transparent Nigeria. With the involvement of the EFCC and UBEC, this grassroots movement is set to gain momentum as more young people take up the mantle of integrity and lead the charge against corruption.