The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has reiterated that the pursuit of transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s public affairs is not only possible but essential for the country’s future.
His remarks came on Thursday, 22nd August 2024, during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Samuel Ogbuku, and his delegation to the EFCC’s headquarters in Abuja.
Olukoyede expressed optimism about the potential for change in the country, particularly in government institutions like the NDDC. His comments followed a brief but impactful discussion with Chief Ogbuku, during which the NDDC boss outlined his vision for reforming the Commission.

“The five minutes of interaction with the MD left me with a different perception of the NDDC. I want to congratulate you on your readiness and commitment to bring change. Perhaps, we will soon see an NDDC that stands as a symbol of pride, accountability, and transparency, capable of delivering on its mandate. That is what the NDDC should represent, and I thank you for bringing that to the table,” Olukoyede said.
Olukoyede took the opportunity to call on all public officeholders to uphold the values of probity, transparency, and accountability in the management of public funds. He emphasised the importance of acting with integrity, reminding leaders that their actions today will be scrutinised in the future.
“Always bear in mind that while you may hold power today, you could find yourself on the other side tomorrow. This should be the guiding principle for those in positions of trust. I have always lived by this belief—because no one remains in office forever. You may try to protect yourself today, but once you leave office, even those closest to you may turn against you. Let this serve as a reminder to us all,” Olukoyede urged.
He further stressed that only leaders with high moral standards should be entrusted with positions of authority. “Nigerians are fundamentally good people, and I proudly say this everywhere I go. The problem we face is the flawed system that allows corruption to thrive. But if you place that same Nigerian in an environment with strict regulatory oversight, they will comply,” he added.
Olukoyede reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to its mission of fighting corruption with determination and integrity. Despite facing criticism and challenges, he assured that the Commission would continue its work to build a better Nigeria. He highlighted the broader vision of using the anti-corruption fight to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and ensure good governance.
“We are resolute at the EFCC and will not compromise. Despite the names we’ve been called, we move forward because someone has to do this job, and we will do it. When I assumed office, I made it clear that we would use the fight against corruption to build the economy and promote good governance. This remains our goal,” Olukoyede declared.
Chief Ogbuku’s visit to the EFCC was not only a gesture of appreciation but also an opportunity to outline the NDDC’s ongoing reforms. He acknowledged the positive impact the EFCC’s recoveries had made on the Niger Delta region, noting that these recoveries had been reinvested into projects aimed at developing the area.
“We are here to thank the EFCC for its efforts in helping the NDDC recover funds that have been reinvested into our region. These recoveries have played a vital role in our development efforts, and we plan to invite the EFCC to join us in commissioning some of these projects. This will show that the recovered funds are being used to support the growth of the Niger Delta,” Ogbuku said.
He further emphasised the NDDC’s commitment to transparency and good governance through its policy of “rebirthing.” This approach involves revisiting the Commission’s past to identify where things went wrong and implementing measures to prevent future mismanagement. One key area of focus has been improving transparency across the organisation.
“The NDDC has developed a negative reputation over the years, but we are committed to moving forward with a policy of rebirthing. This involves looking back to see where we went wrong and implementing changes for the future. Transparency has been a major focus in our reforms,” Ogbuku stated.
Ogbuku also called for enhanced collaboration between the NDDC and the EFCC, particularly in the areas of technical support and capacity building. He requested that the EFCC assist the NDDC in improving its corporate governance structures and standard operating procedures (SOPs), and also provide training for the NDDC’s finance staff.
“We are seeking further collaboration with the EFCC, particularly in technical support. Before our SOPs and corporate governance structures are finalised, we would like your officers to review the documents and provide input. Additionally, we request your assistance in training our finance staff to improve financial management within the Commission,” Ogbuku said.
In response, Olukoyede assured Ogbuku of the EFCC’s readiness to assist and strengthen the NDDC. “We have been working with you on recoveries, and we will continue to do more. This collaboration is something we need to elevate. With your commitment to change, we are prepared to work with you to strengthen your systems and processes, taking the NDDC to the next level,” he concluded.
The meeting between the EFCC and NDDC leadership symbolises a renewed commitment to fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria. With both organisations aligning their efforts, there is hope for significant improvements in public sector management, ultimately benefiting the nation as a whole.
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