EFCC Seeks Stronger Media, Civil Society Partnership

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called on the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) to strengthen collaboration with the Commission in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against corruption.

Olukoyede described the media and CSOs as critical assets, stating that collaboration was more imperative than ever in Nigeria, where economic crimes had grown in scale and sophistication.

He spoke through the Acting Director of the Lagos Office of the EFCC, Adebayo Adeniyi, at a capacity-building workshop for journalists and CSOs.

The EFCC boss noted that partnerships between anti-corruption bodies, the media, and civil society have proven instrumental worldwide in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance.

He also recognised the demanding nature of the EFCC’s mandate, noting that the landscape of economic crime continually evolves and requires diligence and integrity from reporters and advocates alike.

Olukoyede said; “Lagos, as Nigeria’s commercial hub, is a fertile ground for various economic and financial crimes, including foreign exchange scams, business email compromise, and investment and property fraud.

“While enforcement efforts target perpetrators, many citizens remain vulnerable due to information gaps or the lure of quick wealth.

“The media must continue to hold public institutions accountable, while civil society must deepen civic engagement and promote transparency at all levels,” he stated.

The EFCC Chairman also encouraged participants to engage actively, share experiences, ask questions, and explore innovative ways to enhance their contributions to Nigeria’s anti-corruption mission.

Olukoyede further reiterated commitment to building stronger partnerships with all stakeholders to foster a Nigeria where integrity, accountability, and justice become the norm rather than the exception.