By Nkechi Eze
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has called on students across the country to embrace integrity and shun corruption in order to contribute positively to the nation’s development.
Olukoyede gave this charge in Abuja on Thursday, February 20, 2025, when students of Gabs Glorious Kids Academy visited the corporate headquarters of the Commission on a study tour.
Represented by the Head of Media and Publicity, Deputy Commander of the EFCC, DCE Dele Oyewale, Olukoyede decried the devastating impact of corruption on Nigeria’s development and called on the younger generation to be agents of change.
“Corruption has eroded our nation, leaving us without essential social amenities such as good roads, stable electricity, and quality education. We must collectively reject corruption and embrace integrity,” he said.
Olukoyede further stated that corruption causes uncertainty and ruin, urging the students to steer clear of dishonest practices. “Don’t follow corruption; follow integrity. People who choose corruption live by chance, by trial and error because they are never sure of what the future holds. They could end up in jail or face tragic consequences. I urge you all to be good people and always do the right thing wherever you find yourselves,” he said.
The EFCC’s boss also encouraged the students to be responsible leaders when entrusted with public office in the future, stressing the need for exemplary leadership to change the country’s narrative and restore its lost glory.
Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE I Tony Orilade, while delivering a presentation on the positive use of social media, advised the students to harness social media for positive engagements rather than using it for fraudulent activities.
“Over eight billion people across the globe are connected on various social platforms. While some are using it for developmental purposes and making legitimate fortunes, others are exploiting it for fraudulent and criminal activities,” he said.
He encouraged the students to use social media for educational advancement, such as conducting research, discussing classroom topics in groups, and assisting peers who may struggle with certain subjects.
“Social media should be a platform for growth and development. Use it decently to avoid getting into trouble with the law. Fraudulent activities on social media can lead to prosecution and imprisonment,” he said.
Deputy Superintendent of the EFCC, DSE Armaya’u Aliyu in his presentation, educated the students on the dangers of cybercrime. He highlighted various forms of cyber-related offences including sextortion, identity theft, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking.
Aliyu urged the students to use the internet responsibly and avoid engaging in criminal activities. He also warned them about the dangers of sextortion, a crime where perpetrators manipulate victims into sharing explicit content for blackmail purposes.
“Never send your nude pictures to anyone. If anyone asks for such, report immediately to your parents or a trusted elder. The internet is a great tool, but it must be used wisely to avoid falling victim to cybercriminals,” he said.
Speaking further, the Head of the Enlightenment and Reorientation Unit of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE II Aisha Mohammed encouraged the students to lend their voices to the fight against corruption, emphasizing their role as the future leaders of the country.
“Nigeria belongs to you. Be good, uphold integrity, and contribute to making the nation great. Avoid exam malpractice and all forms of dishonesty. As ambassadors of the EFCC and Nigeria, spread the message of anti-corruption to your parents, neighbours, and friends”, she said.
Mr. Philip Ayeni, the Principal of Gabs Glorious Kids Academy in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for the warm reception and insightful lectures provided to the students. He commended the Commission’s efforts in combating corruption and pledged to instill the values of integrity in the students.
“In the history of our school’s excursions, we have never been received with such warmth and hospitality as we experienced at the EFCC. We are proud to be associated with the EFCC and its commitment to ridding Nigeria of corruption. I will ensure that all our students who are now anti-corruption ambassadors practice what they preach,” he said.
