The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has announced that it recovered more than N365.4 billion and secured 4,111 convictions in 2024.
The commission’s Executive Chairman, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, made this disclosure in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, at the conclusion of a three-day retreat for EFCC directors. Themed “EFCC: The Journey So Far, Ensuring Professionalism and Integrity,” the retreat focused on strengthening integrity and efficiency in the agency’s operations.
According to a statement released by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale on Saturday, Olukoyede credited these achievements to the dedication, commitment, and sacrifice of the commission’s staff. He further pledged to surpass these milestones in 2025, emphasizing the need for increased hard work and discipline to achieve even greater success.
“In 2024, the commission secured 4,111 convictions and recovered over N365.4 billion. I appreciate the sacrifice, discipline, and commitment of our staff and urge them to maintain even higher levels of dedication to achieve more in 2025,” he stated.
Olukoyede also underscored the importance of professionalism and integrity in fighting corruption, promising to transform the EFCC into a highly motivated, honest, and effective institution. He assured that within six months, Nigerians would witness a rebranded and more efficient EFCC.
Experts Speak on EFCC’s Role in Public Perception and Anti-Corruption Efforts
During the retreat, Professor Tonnie Iredia, a guest speaker, addressed the role of personnel in managing information and public perception of the EFCC. He pointed out that misconceptions about the agency’s work often stem from deliberate misinformation and skepticism.
He praised Olukoyede’s transparent leadership, integrity, and passion, urging greater public involvement in the anti-corruption fight.
Similarly, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana reflected on the evolution of the EFCC, affirming that the commission has become a permanent fixture in Nigeria’s anti-graft efforts.
Falana commended Olukoyede and his team for their resilience and commitment in advancing the fight against corruption. He also acknowledged challenges within the judiciary, promising that necessary reforms would be explored to enhance the commission’s effectiveness in tackling corruption nationwide.