By Francis Wilfred
The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has called on Nigerians to begin 2026 with a firm commitment to zero tolerance for corruption, urging citizens to match their renewed hopes for the new year with accountable and ethical conduct. Olukoyede made the call in Abuja during his New Year message to the nation, stressing that the fight against economic and financial crimes remains critical to Nigeria’s development and long-term prosperity. He said meaningful national progress can only be achieved when citizens reject corruption in all its forms.
In a statement signed by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Dele Oyewale, the anti-graft boss acknowledged the optimism that often accompanies the new year but warned that such enthusiasm must translate into responsible action. He said Nigerians must consciously align their daily conduct with the principles of transparency and integrity.“As we welcome the new year with excitement and renewed hopes, let us renew our commitment and channel our energy to the paths of accountability and zero tolerance for corruption,” Olukoyede said.
He emphasised that corruption remains one of the major obstacles to national growth, contributing to poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. According to him, tackling economic and financial crimes is not the sole responsibility of anti-corruption agencies but a collective duty that requires the cooperation of all Nigerians. Olukoyede expressed confidence that Nigeria can overcome its economic challenges if citizens and institutions remain committed to ethical standards. He said the country has the capacity to break free from the cycle of poverty and deprivation through discipline, patriotism, and respect for the rule of law.
The EFCC chairman linked the anti-corruption drive to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, noting that the success of the programme depends largely on integrity in public and private life. He described the agenda as a strategic framework aimed at rebuilding confidence in governance and restoring Nigeria’s global standing.“We can make Nigeria greater. This is the pivot of the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr President. Nigeria will rise again,” Olukoyede said. He added that the EFCC will continue to intensify efforts to prevent, investigate, and prosecute economic and financial crimes, while also promoting public awareness on the dangers of corruption. According to him, enforcement must go hand in hand with value reorientation to achieve sustainable results.
Olukoyede urged Nigerians to support anti-corruption institutions by refusing to participate in fraudulent practices and by reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels. He said public cooperation remains essential in building a transparent and accountable society.In his concluding remarks, the EFCC chairman wished Nigerians a happy and fulfilling 2026, expressing hope that the new year would mark a turning point in the nation’s collective resolve to uphold integrity and national values.
