Presidency Applauds Olukoyede for EFCC Reforms and Anti-Corruption Frameworks

The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination and Head of the Central Delivery Coordination Unit, Hadiza Bala Usman, has praised the executive chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, for his impactful reforms and systemic advancements in corruption prevention.

During a visit to the EFCC in Abuja on Monday, November 18, 2024, Ms. Usman highlighted Mr. Olukoyede’s practical and sustainable policy initiatives, particularly in developing frameworks to curb corruption. She also proposed performance charter guidelines for the Commission, emphasizing their alignment with its mandate to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in combating corruption.

Ms. Usman noted the importance of measurable outcomes, stating, “Anything that is not measured cannot be done.” She underscored the need for the EFCC’s strategic objectives to align with its core values, adding that performance metrics should extend beyond arrests, prosecutions, and convictions. Instead, they should include capacity building, gap analysis, and addressing challenges to align with President Bola Tinubu’s priority areas.

In response, Mr. Olukoyede expressed appreciation for the collaborative approach, stating, “Fighting corruption is not all about arresting people. Our work is to fight corruption to stimulate the economy.” He highlighted the creation of the Fraud Risk Assessment Department as a pivotal step in preventing corruption before it occurs.

Mr. Olukoyede also emphasized the importance of continuous system evaluations to ensure effectiveness, pledging his team’s commitment to working closely with the Presidential aide’s office. He noted that under his leadership, several policy reviews had been implemented, resulting in institutional restructuring and capacity building.

“These efforts, coupled with notable convictions and recoveries, are already yielding significant results. Our strategic objectives and visions are clearly outlined, and we are actively pursuing them,” he said.

The visit and discussions further underscore the EFCC’s resolve to strengthen its operations, foster collaboration, and enhance its preventive measures against corruption.