By Uzair Adam
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has stated that corruption poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s development.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to tackling the menace and urged all stakeholders to support the anti-corruption campaign.
Speaking at the launch of the EFCC’s “Integrity Club” in primary and secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Tuesday, Olukoyede, represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwujaren, said the initiative aims to instill values of integrity, honesty, and diligence in young Nigerians.
“The EFCC is determined to bring corruption to its knees in Nigeria, and together we can achieve this goal,” he said.
He explained that the Integrity Clubs serve as platforms for interaction, enlightenment, and empowerment, helping students cultivate ethical values.
He noted that children at this stage are still receptive to guidance and can be molded into responsible leaders through proper mentorship.
“Our children can only become the leaders we desire if we equip, mentor, and guide them with the right values. Integrity Clubs will provide them with the foundation to resist corruption,” he added.
Olukoyede urged schools to actively engage students in discussions on ethical conduct and regularly provide feedback to the EFCC on the club’s activities.
In his remarks, the acting Executive Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, Hassan Sule, commended the EFCC for the initiative, stating that prevention is the best approach to tackling corruption.
“This initiative will shape children’s character and influence their peers positively. If we can implement it effectively, we will have responsible adults in the future,” he said.
He assured that the board would institutionalize Integrity Clubs in at least 30 schools within the FCT, emphasizing that education remains the most effective tool in the fight against corruption.