The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Nigeria’s Northwest Zone has achieved a significant milestone by recovering approximately eleven billion naira (N11,000,000,000) within one year. This accomplishment underscores the agency’s relentless efforts to combat criminality and corruption in the country.
Aisha Abubakar, the EFCC North-west Zonal Commander, revealed this remarkable achievement during an interaction with journalists in Kaduna, following a marked road walk organized by the commission to raise awareness against corruption.
In the span of a year, the EFCC’s Northwest Zone has secured an impressive total of two hundred and thirty-five (235) convictions, amplifying its impact in the region. The zone includes Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, reflecting the extensive reach of the EFCC’s anti-graft initiatives.
In her address, Aisha Abubakar emphasized the zonal command’s unwavering commitment to meeting public expectations in the fight against corruption, particularly through collaborative efforts with other law enforcement agencies. This synergy aims to strengthen the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures and reinforce public trust.
Since its establishment in 2003, the EFCC has been entrusted with the mandate to enforce economic and financial crimes laws in Nigeria, including the investigation and prosecution of money laundering and other financial offenses. The agency’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and professionalism is evident in its eagerness to engage with both local and international law enforcement bodies to enhance its operational capabilities.
Echoing this sentiment, the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, underscored the imperative for EFCC personnel to exhibit diligence and resourcefulness in fulfilling their duties. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to aligning with the corruption-prevention framework outlined by the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), emphasizing the role of international cooperation in eradicating corruption.
Emphasizing the global significance of the EFCC’s endeavors, Mr. Olukoyede emphasized the agency’s role in fostering a corruption-free world and contributing to national development. His vision encompasses the creation of conducive environments for job opportunities, the facilitation of investment prospects across Nigeria, and the elevation of the country’s international standing.
In alignment with the UNCAC’s unifying mandate, the EFCC is poised to play a pivotal role in the global fight against corruption, aspiring to be an instrumental force in realizing a world free from the scourge of corruption.
