As Nigeria continues to grapple with endemic corruption, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has declared that Nigerians are expecting more than ever from the Commission, stressing that the anti-corruption agency cannot afford to fail the public.
Olukoyede made the statement on Friday at the Passing Out Parade for Detective Superintendent Cadets Course 10 and Detective Inspector Cadets Course 7, held at the Nigeria Police Mobile Force Training College in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.
“Integrity, for us, is more than a preachment; it is a rule of engagement. Anti-corruption officers must be above board at all times. Nigerians are rightfully expecting much from the EFCC, and we cannot afford to disappoint them,” he said, while addressing the newly commissioned officers.
He reminded the cadets that their training was not ordinary, but part of a strategic national investment aimed at producing well-rounded law enforcement professionals ready to confront financial crimes at the highest level.
“The commission has invested heavily in your training because we believe in producing officers moulded in intellect, physical agility, courage, and accountability. You are equipped as international law enforcement officers and must see yourselves in that light,” he added.
The EFCC boss also warned the cadets against falling into corrupt practices themselves, disclosing that stringent disciplinary measures had been put in place to deal with internal breaches.
At the same event, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State urged the National Assembly to establish a dedicated court to fast-track corruption cases, noting that the slow pace of trials undermines national efforts.
“The future of Nigeria is truly bright,” Sule said, praising the discipline and determination shown by the graduating officers. He commended President Bola Tinubu and the EFCC Chairman for their demonstrated will to fight corruption and called for institutional reforms to match that commitment.
“The beating of corruption cannot be done in a courtroom where trials drag for years. We need a special court. Until Nigeria deals with corruption decisively, the world won’t take us seriously,” he added.
Commandant of the EFCC Academy, Joseph Ogwiji, announced that 404 cadets — both superintendents and inspectors — successfully completed the rigorous training. He described them as the best cohort produced by the Academy in the past 16 years, praising their high level of discipline and readiness for service.
The ceremony, while celebrating the achievements of the new officers, also highlighted the urgent expectations Nigerians have of the EFCC — not only to prosecute offenders but to lead by example, restore public trust, and ensure that justice is both swift and transparent.
Despite the existence of anti-corruption agencies like the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Nigeria’s battle against corruption has often been hindered by procedural bottlenecks, including frequent court adjournments and the lack of specialized courts.
As expectations rise, both the public and key stakeholders appear united in calling for reforms that will strengthen the hand of the EFCC and accelerate justice delivery.
