The Nigerian Senate has unanimously confirmed the appointment of Mr. Ola Olukoyede as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This significant development marks a new era in the country’s ongoing battle against financial crimes.
Mr. Olukoyede, a seasoned legal practitioner with over 22 years of experience, now assumes the crucial role previously held by Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, who was suspended earlier this year. Alongside him, Muhammad Hammajoda has been confirmed as the Secretary of the EFCC.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a move that highlights his commitment to tackling corruption, appointed Mr. Olukoyede and Mr. Hammajoda on October 12, 2023, pending Senate confirmation.
During the screening and confirmation process, Mr. Olukoyede articulated his dedication to combatting financial crimes without fear or favor, in accordance with the provisions of the law. Notably, he emphasized his intention to prioritize the prevention of corruption, rather than solely relying on enforcement measures.
With the confirmation of these key appointments, the EFCC is poised to strengthen its efforts in curbing financial crimes that have plagued Nigeria’s economic prosperity. Mr. Olukoyede’s extensive experience as a regulatory compliance consultant and specialist in fraud management and corporate intelligence positions him as an ideal candidate to lead the EFCC’s fight against corruption.
Born on October 14, 1969, in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Mr. Olukoyede acquired his tertiary education at prestigious institutions such as the Lagos State University, University of Lagos, Institute of Arbitration (France), and the University of Harvard’s Kennedy School of Executive Education (United States).
Before his appointment as the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Olukoyede worked as a lawyer at a law firm owned by former Vice President of Nigeria, Yemi Osinbajo. His previous roles at the EFCC include serving as Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman, Ibrahim Magu, from 2016 to 2018, and as Secretary to the Commission from 2018 to 2023.
Notably, Mr. Olukoyede’s experience extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, as he was a member of the Fraud Advisory Panel in the United Kingdom. Additionally, he is an ordained Pastor at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of Refuge, Lagos Province 12, Shasha, Lagos State.
Joining Mr. Olukoyede in his mission to strengthen the EFCC is Muhammad Hammajoda, the newly appointed Secretary of the commission. With a background in Public Finance Management and extensive experience in both lecturing and banking, Mr. Hammajoda brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Maiduguri and a Masters in Business Administration from the same institution. Previously, he served as the Director of Accounts at the EFCC.
The confirmation of these appointments is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening the EFCC and intensifying the fight against financial crimes. With the dynamic duo of Mr. Olukoyede and Mr. Hammajoda at the helm, the EFCC is ready to proactively tackle corruption and protect Nigeria’s economic well-being.
