Presidency hails EFCC boss for reforms, preventive frameworks

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination and Head of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit, Hadiza Usman, has lauded the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, for his impactful reforms and systemic advancements within the Commission.

Speaking during a visit to the EFCC in Abuja on Monday, Usman commended Olukoyede’s efforts in developing frameworks aimed at preventing corruption, emphasising that his policy initiatives are both practical and sustainable.

Ms Usman praised the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to establish a performance charter that would guide its operations.

She noted that the Commission’s focus on prevention would enhance its overall efficiency and effectiveness in the fight against corruption.

“Anything that is not measured cannot be done,” she stated, underscoring the importance of key performance indicators in evaluating the Commission’s success.

While arrest, prosecution, and conviction remain important, Usman highlighted the need to measure broader strategic objectives, such as capacity building, identifying gaps, and addressing emerging threats.

Olukoyede responded by expressing his appreciation for the visit, emphasising the need for continuous evaluation of the EFCC’s processes.

“Fighting corruption is not just about arresting people,” he stated. “Our goal is to stimulate the economy by preventing corruption before it happens.”

He explained that, upon taking office, he created the Fraud Risk Assessment Department to assess and prevent corruption.

He further emphasised the importance of periodic reviews to improve the Commission’s systems and pledged his commitment to working collaboratively with the Presidential team on this effort.

Reflecting on the progress made under his leadership, Olukoyede highlighted the ongoing institutional reforms within the EFCC, including strategic objectives that are already yielding tangible results.

“We have our strategic objectives and visions clearly outlined, and we are actively pursuing them,” he concluded.

The meeting underscored the collaborative approach between the Presidency and the EFCC to strengthen the country’s fight against corruption through systemic reforms and preventive measures.