The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over a staggering N3.94 billion recovered from fraudulent transactions to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing anti-corruption fight.

The funds, precisely N3,936,145,822 were formally presented on Thursday, March 18, 2026, at the EFCC headquarters in Abuja during a brief but symbolic ceremony , a statement from the anti-graft agency revealed.

Secretary to the Commission, Mohammed Hammajoda, who represented EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, said the recovery was the outcome of painstaking investigations and the uncovering of fraudulent dealings involving certain actors within NNPCL.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s resolve to tackle economic and financial crimes, noting that the agency remains committed despite the risks involved.

“On behalf of the Executive Chairman, we will continue to put ourselves on the line to serve over 220 million Nigerians. Many of our colleagues have paid the price, and others still will, as we carry out our duties with courage and integrity,” Hammajoda stated.

He described the recovery as part of EFCC’s broader mandate to safeguard public resources and restore accountability in critical sectors of the economy.

Receiving the cheque on behalf of NNPCL, Executive Vice President, Downstream, Mumuni Dagazau, lauded the EFCC for its role in the recovery, describing the development as a testament to institutional cooperation.

Dagazau acknowledged longstanding operational challenges within the national oil company but emphasised ongoing efforts to reform internal systems and strengthen transparency.

“This recovery demonstrates the unity that exists within our system.

NNPC has had its struggles, but we are committed to correcting them. Partnering with the EFCC on this effort is something we are proud of,” he said.

He added that the company would continue to rely on the EFCC’s support in addressing financial irregularities and ensuring accountability moving forward.

The recovered sum is expected to be reintegrated into NNPCL’s accounts, reinforcing both agencies’ commitment to transparency and prudent financial management in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

The handover comes amid intensified scrutiny of financial practices in state-owned enterprises, with authorities under pressure to demonstrate tangible results in the fight against corruption.