Olukoyede credits Tinubu for Nigeria’s improved corruption index

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, has attributed Nigeria’s improvement in the Transparency International (TI) Corruption Perceptions Index to President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption.

Olukoyede made the remarks on Friday at the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Detective Assistants Course 5, held at Ende Hills, Akwanga, Nasarawa State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria has climbed five spots in its fight against corruption, as per the 2024 TI Corruption Perceptions Index, released on Tuesday.

The country now ranks 140th out of 180 nations, scoring 26 out of 100, an improvement from last year’s rank of 145 with a score of 25.

Olukoyede credited this achievement to the leadership of President Tinubu, highlighting his unflinching support for the commission and the broader fight against economic and financial crimes.

“It should be noted that under the able leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria has achieved a higher position in the Transparency International grading, moving up five points.

“This is a remarkable improvement in our fight against corruption in Nigeria,” he stated.

While reaffirming the commission’s dedication to combating economic and financial crimes, Olukoyede emphasised that the EFCC could not tackle the challenge alone and required the support of all stakeholders.

“Let me once again remind us that the fight against economic and financial crimes is one on which the future of our nation depends.

“Nigeria looks up to the EFCC for solutions to pervasive corruption and for assistance in stimulating the economy.

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“The commission is also a beacon of hope in addressing cybercrime and other financial crimes driven by technology,” he said.

He urged the newly trained officers of the EFCC to play a vital role in the mission to eradicate economic and financial crimes through prevention, enforcement, and coordination.

“A lot of trust is placed on you as cadets of the commission. Your families, the EFCC, and the entire citizens of Nigeria look up to you to uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity.

“You must allow no room for compromise or tolerance for misconduct. In the course of your duties, you will face challenges that will test your integrity and commitment.

“To you, cadets, I say: go forth and serve with integrity, courage, and professionalism.

“Embark on the fight against economic and financial crimes. Collaborate with your team and other stakeholders.

“Together, we can free our nation from the shackles of economic and financial crimes. We know the task is daunting, but we will not give up,” he stated.

Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State called for collaboration in the fight against corruption, emphasising that the country cannot progress without eradicating this menace.

“We cannot move forward if we don’t confront and eradicate corruption.

“Leaders at various tiers of government have a responsibility to support agencies like the EFCC in this critical fight.

“This is why Nasarawa State, recognising the critical role of the EFCC, has decided to withdraw from the legal tussle against the commission regarding its statutory powers,” he stated.

The governor emphasised that the EFCC was established with the primary goal of eradicating economic and financial crimes to ensure a corruption-free nation.

He further stressed that the commission could not succeed in its mission without properly trained personnel to execute its mandate.

“This is why the commission must remain committed to the recruitment and continuous training of its officers to build capacity and strengthen its operations,” he added.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption, Sen. Emmanuel Udende, represented by Sen. Diket Plang, pledged the support of the upper chamber for the EFCC’s objectives.

He lauded the commission for enhancing Nigeria’s image and respect on the international stage through its patriotism and commitment.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, Rep. Ginger Onwusibe, also called for stakeholder support in the fight against corruption.

He urged the new cadets to recognise their selection as an honour and a responsibility to serve in the battle against financial crimes.

“With your commitment, Nigeria can effectively combat criminality and promote a safer, more stable financial system,” Onwusibe said.