The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fighting corruption, stating that it poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s development. He called on stakeholders at all levels to actively support the anti-corruption crusade.
Speaking at the launch of the EFCC Integrity Club in primary and secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Tuesday, Olukoyede, represented by EFCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, emphasized the need to instill the values of integrity, honesty, courage, and diligence in young Nigerians.
Integrity Clubs: Shaping the Future Leaders
The Integrity Club initiative, according to Olukoyede, aims to:
- Educate students on the dangers of corruption.
- Encourage moral uprightness and ethical leadership.
- Create a forum for interaction and enlightenment on corruption resistance.
“Corruption is a threat to our nation’s development, and it must be fought with all our might. The EFCC encourages every stakeholder to be part of this crusade. Integrity Clubs will help shape young minds towards embracing higher values,” he said.
He added that students are receptive to positive instructions, making it easier to mold their character early and guide them into becoming principled leaders of tomorrow.
Support from FCT Education Board
The Acting Executive Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Hassan Sule, commended the EFCC for introducing Integrity Clubs in schools. He described the initiative as a proactive step toward fighting corruption through education, stating:
“Prevention is better than cure. By instilling integrity in children today, we are building a generation that will resist corruption tomorrow.”
Dr. Sule also announced plans to institutionalize Integrity Clubs in at least 30 schools across the FCT, ensuring that students influence their peers toward ethical conduct and responsible citizenship.
A Call for Collective Action
Olukoyede stressed that fighting corruption requires individual resistance, urging Nigerians to see themselves as solutions, not problems. He assured students in the Integrity Club of continuous mentorship and support from the EFCC, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of honesty and integrity.
“As future leaders, we will nurture you to be the pillars that will hold our nation together,” he added.
The EFCC chairman urged schools to create feedback mechanisms to engage with the commission, ensuring the Integrity Club program remains impactful and sustainable.
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