By Nkechi Eze
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja (formerly University of Abuja), have resolved to work towards an enhanced and sustainable partnership aimed at combating financial crimes and fostering human capacity development. The decision followed a courtesy visit on Friday, February 27, 2026, by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Hakeem Fawehinmi, and his management team to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, at the Commission’s corporate headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
In an official signed statement, the Commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, disclosed that Mr. Olukoyede expressed appreciation for the visit and assured the University leadership of EFCC’s readiness to expedite actions towards a more engaging and impactful relationship. He urged the Vice-Chancellor and his management team to focus on stabilizing the institution and to work collaboratively, emphasizing that progress could only be achieved if the leadership and management act in unison. “We keep telling executives to do the right thing and follow the rules. This ensures that long after you leave office, the institution remains respected and functional,” Olukoyede said.
Professor Fawehinmi, while expressing the University’s readiness to forge a sustainable relationship with the EFCC, commended the Commission for its relentless efforts in tackling financial crimes, particularly cybercrime, which continues to pose significant challenges in Nigeria. He expressed gratitude to the EFCC Chairman and his management team for their dedication and effective leadership. “We want to commend you for the great job you are doing in fighting financial crimes, particularly cybercrime. Your efforts have been exemplary, and we sincerely thank you,” he said.
Speaking on areas of potential collaboration, Professor Fawehinmi highlighted the need for joint initiatives focused on human capacity building and the sensitization of staff and students on the dangers of financial crimes. He noted that Yakubu Gowon University, being the only Federal university in the Federal Capital Territory, is strategically located to play a pivotal role in these initiatives. He further recalled earlier plans to establish an Institute of Forensic Studies in collaboration with an Indian-based institution, which would have included the EFCC, though the initiative was overtaken by the establishment of the EFCC Academy and Cybersecurity Research Centre.
The Vice-Chancellor affirmed the University’s commitment to ensuring that the collaboration with the EFCC would adhere to high standards of financial regulatory compliance, aimed at empowering students and staff with knowledge, skills, and awareness required to combat economic crimes.
According to the EFCC spokesperson, the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between regulatory authorities and educational institutions, emphasizing that strategic partnerships such as this are crucial for promoting transparency, integrity, and accountability in society.
The renewed engagement signals both institutions’ dedication to fostering an environment where financial crimes are effectively addressed, students and staff are sensitized on compliance, and human capacity is strengthened in alignment with national anti-corruption efforts.
