The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has charged newly commissioned officers of the Commission to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability as the guiding principles of their service.
Olukoyede gave the charge on Friday at the Passing Out Parade of 404 EFCC cadets at the Nigeria Police Mobile Force Training College, Ende Hills, Akwanga, Nasarawa State.
The graduating cadets comprise 294 Detective Superintendents and 110 Detective Inspectors.
The EFCC chairman emphasized that integrity is not just a slogan within the agency but a non-negotiable rule of engagement.
“Being an operative of the EFCC carries heavy responsibilities of personal discipline, integrity, courage and accountability. The EFCC has zero tolerance for corruption and compromise,” he said.
According to him, the Commission’s focus on professionalism is reflected in the comprehensive training offered to the cadets.
“The Commission has invested heavily in your training because we believe in turning out officers moulded in sound intellect, physical agility, courageous comportment, and accountable conduct,” Olukoyede added.
He warned the new officers against corrupt practices, stressing that any deviation from the EFCC’s core values would attract strict sanctions.
“You are coming into an organisation that places a high premium on integrity. Anti-corruption officers must be above board at all times. Sanctions against corruption within are stiff — and I wouldn’t want that for any of you,” he cautioned.
On the broader anti-corruption fight, Olukoyede called for collective national commitment.
“To break the siege of graft in our land, we need the concerted energy, passion and drive of every patriotic Nigerian. The EFCC has proven capable of tackling economic and financial crimes, thanks to a dedicated and well-trained workforce.”
The Reviewing Officer of the parade and Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, commended the cadets for their resilience and discipline.
“I congratulate all of you for your resilience. What we witnessed today gives us hope that the future of Nigeria is bright,” the governor said.
While acknowledging the EFCC’s successes, Sule appealed to the National Assembly to consider constitutional reforms, including the creation of a special anti-corruption court to handle graft-related cases more efficiently.
“As we review the constitution, I urge the National Assembly to consider establishing special courts for economic and financial crimes,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, Senator Emmanuel Udende, and his House of Representatives counterpart, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, offered congratulatory messages and words of encouragement to the cadets.
Special recognition was given to outstanding cadets: Amagiya Efe Princewill was named Overall Best Cadet in the Superintendent category, while Sanni Ayoola Blessing emerged Overall Best Cadet in the Inspector cadre.
The EFCC’s commitment to professionalism and excellence continues to shape its approach to combating economic and financial crimes across the country.
